SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SCR 8404

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 26, 1991

Brief Description:  Creating the joint select committee on agricultural policy.

SPONSORS:Senator Barr.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & WATER RESOURCES

Staff:  John Stuhlmiller (786‑7446)

Hearing Dates:March 5, 1991

BACKGROUND:

Concern has been expressed over what role the state should take in setting agricultural policy which both protects the public health and fosters agricultural commerce.  The tie between Washington State University and the Washington State Department of Agriculture in relation to this policy question is unclear.

SUMMARY:

A Joint Select Committee on Agricultural Policy is created to study the relation of Washington State University, the Washington State Department of Agriculture and the agricultural cooperatives of the state.  The study is to determine if any statutory changes are needed to clarify state policy in this area.

The committee is to be comprised of nine members:  two from each caucus of each house of the Legislature; one representing Washington State University; one representing the Department of Agriculture; and three representing agricultural cooperatives.  The committee is to report its findings and recommendations during the 1992 session.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested February 25, 1991