Subject of Possible Rule Making: The purpose of this rule making is to amend and (hull test 9/19/05)repeal sections within the rules of the Washington State Potato Commission. Proposed amendments will update "hosting" language and will remove language referring to prepayment of assessments through the purchase of stamps.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 15.66 RCW, specifically RCW 15.66.140(2), and chapter 34.05 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The Washington State Potato Commission is proposing to discontinue activities relating to advertising and promotion. All references to "promotional" hosting are being removed. The proposal also removes outdated language related to the collection of assessments.

     Process for Developing New Rule: The proposal has been developed as a result of a collaborative effort between the Washington State Potato Commission and the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Once the draft amendments are finalized, notices will be published and mailed to all producers and handlers within the affected area who may be directly affected by these rule changes. Interested parties can submit comments during the public comment period and can also participate during the public hearing process.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Pat Boss, Executive Director, Washington State Potato Commission, 108 Interlake Road, Moses Lake, WA 98837, phone (509) 765-8845, fax (509) 765-4853, e-mail pboss@potatoes.com.

May 17, 2005

Allen Floyd, Chairman

Potato Commission