SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 6090

   AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, FEBRUARY 1, 1994

Brief Description:  Eliminating Washington State University's rodent control responsibilities.

SPONSORS: Senators M. Rasmussen and Prince; by request of Washington State University

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators M. Rasmussen, Chairman; Loveland, Vice Chairman; Bauer, Morton and Newhouse.

Staff:  Vic Moon (786‑7469)

Hearing Dates: January 24, 1994; February 1, 1994

BACKGROUND:

Since 1921 the Washington State University has had a program to control rodents, including squirrels, pocket gophers, rabbits, and other rodents designated by the university.  The university was given authority to employ inspectors and was authorized to supervise the extermination of rodents by landowners. 

The program is no longer operating since rodent control is done directly by landowners or private pest control companies.

SUMMARY:

All of Chapter 17.16 relating to rodents, RCW 17.16.010 through RCW 17.16.130, is repealed. 

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

Washington State University has not operated this program for 30 years and it is no longer needed.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Arlen Davison, Washington State University