HB 2480 - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Provides that the tax imposed by RCW 82.04.240 does not apply to cleaning fish.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 2480

                   March 30, 1994

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

  The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 2, House Bill No. 2480 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to taxation of manufacturers of fish products;"

     This bill relates to providing an exemption for fish processors from the manufacturing tax when fish are processed in Washington.  Section 2 of the bill prohibits local governments from charging permit fees for fish enhancement projects that are proposed by state agencies, cooperative groups, and regional fisheries enhancement groups.

     Section 2 places an undue burden on the state's local governments.  If this section were to become law up to 300 projects a year that currently require local government permits would be impacted.  While these fish enhancement projects are very worthwhile, many of them are very complex and controversial, and local governments should not be denied the ability to levy permit fees for the work the projects require.

     For this reason I am vetoing section 2 of this bill.

     The Association of Washington Cities and the Washington Association of Counties have indicated a desire to work with the Executive branch and members of the legislature who are interested in promoting fish enhancement projects and see if a reasonable accommodation can be found.

     With the exception of Section 2, House Bill No. 2480 is approved.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Mike Lowry

                   Governor