FINAL BILL REPORT

                          2SSJM 8003

                     AS PASSED LEGISLATURE

Brief Description:  Soliciting the continued partnership between federal agencies and the Washington State Rural Development Council.

SPONSORS: Senate Committee on Trade, Technology & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Skratek, Erwin, Sheldon, Bluechel, M. Rasmussen, Deccio and von Reichbauer)

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRADE, TECHNOLOGY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRADE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & HOUSING

BACKGROUND:

During the decade of the '80s and into the early '90s, much of rural Washington experienced economic distress and population decline as compared to the rapidly growing Puget Sound region.

In response to this period of rural recession, a series of state programs were established or expanded to address the problems facing rural communities, in particular "distressed areas."  The legislatively mandated Service Delivery Task Force in its report to the Legislature stressed the need for policy and programmatic change in economic development programs, with emphasis on the following areas:  clear articulation of comprehensive policies; need for delivery of services at the local levels; collaboration and building of trust among participants; and evaluation of programs.

In 1990, the federal government, by presidential initiative, established the Rural Development Council composed of representatives from the federal, state, local and tribal governments and the private and nonprofit sectors.  These representatives are brought together in an effort to promote coordination and cooperation in promoting economic vitality in rural areas. 

SUMMARY:

The Washington State Legislature requests Congress establish the Initiative on Rural Development on an ongoing basis and provide other states the opportunity to participate in efforts to enhance the economic viability of rural communities.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate    48   0

House     96   0