SENATE BILL REPORT

                            HB 2213

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE, FEBRUARY 16, 1994

Brief Description:  Changing the Washington state magistrates' association.

SPONSORS: Representatives Eide, Padden, Appelwick and Wineberry

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators A. Smith, Chairman; Ludwig, Vice Chairman; Nelson, Quigley, Roach and Schow.

Staff:  Susan Carlson (786‑7418)

Hearing Dates: February 16, 1994

BACKGROUND:

Current statutes designate the association comprised of all elected or appointed judges of courts of limited jurisdiction as the "Washington State Magistrates' Association."  This conflicts with the statutory definition of magistrate which includes appellate and superior court judges along with district and municipal court judges. 

Statutes also provide the annual meeting for the association be held during August or September.  However, the association's annual meeting has traditionally been held in the spring. 

It is recommended references to the magistrates' association be changed to refer to the "district and municipal court judges' association" and the governing board be allowed to schedule annual meetings.

SUMMARY:

The "Washington State Magistrates' Association" is changed to the "Washington State District and Municipal Court Judges' Association."

The annual meeting of the association may be scheduled by the governing board.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

The bill removes confusion about the association's membership and allows the governing board to schedule annual meetings.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Judge Kip Stilz, District and Municipal Court Judges Assn.