5096-S2.E AMH AG H2725.1

E2SSB 5096 - H COMM AMD ADOPTED 4-18-91

By Committee on Agriculture & Rural Development

    Strike everything after the enacting clause and insert the following:

    "NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.  A new section is added to chapter 15.04 RCW to read as follows:

    The history, economy, culture, and the future of Washington state to a large degree all involve agriculture, which is vital to the economic well-being of the state.  The legislature finds that farmers and ranchers are responsible stewards of the land, but are increasingly subjected to complaints and unwarranted restrictions that encourage, and even force, the premature removal of lands from agricultural uses.

    The legislature further finds that it is now in the overriding public interest that support for agriculture be clearly expressed and that adequate protection be given to agricultural lands, uses, activities, and operations.

    The legislature further finds that the department of agriculture has a duty to promote and protect agriculture and its dependent rural community in Washington state."

    "NEW SECTION. Sec. 2.  A new section is added to chapter 15.04 RCW to read as follows:

    The department shall seek to enhance, protect, and perpetuate the ability of the private sector to produce food and fiber.  Additionally, the department shall seek to maintain the economic well-being of the agricultural industry and its dependent rural community in Washington state."

E2SSB 5096 - H COMM AMD

By Committee on Agriculture & Rural Development

    On page 1, line 2 of the title, after "agriculture;" strike the remainder of the title and insert "and adding new sections to chapter 15.04 RCW."