FINAL BILL REPORT

                 SHB 1123

                        PARTIAL VETO

C 350 L 95

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Creating the office of Washington state trade representative.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Representatives Sheldon, Van Luven, Horn, Campbell, Foreman, Mason, Hatfield, Ballasiotes, Kremen, Conway, K. Schmidt, D. Schmidt, Grant, Sheahan, Chopp, Schoesler, Morris, Koster, Thibaudeau, Talcott, Valle, Wolfe, L. Thomas, Casada, Boldt, Sherstad, Huff and Mitchell).

House Committee on Trade & Economic Development

Senate Committee on Labor, Commerce & Trade

Background:  Recent passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Uruguay round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) highlight the increased importance of international trade to the United States and the state of Washington.

Washington State has several programs to promote international trade and export by small- and medium-sized businesses.  These programs include research and market development activities, export counseling, and export technical assistance.

In 1993, the Legislature established a 15-member Council on International Trade.  The council was established to coordinate the various state programs that promote international trade, among other duties.  The council expires on June 30, 1995.

In 1994, as part of the Governor's International Trade Initiative, the position of special trade representative was created.  The position was jointly funded through the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development.  The special trade representative acts as the state's liaison with foreign governments on trade matters and issues, works with state agencies involved in international trade, and works with the Council on International Trade.  The position of special trade representative was not created by statute.

Summary:  The Office of the Washington State Trade Representative is created in the Office of the Governor.  The position of Governor's special trade representative is created as the executive and administrative head of the office.  The Governor's special trade representative is subject to confirmation by the Senate.

The Governor's special trade representative may:  (1)  establish a trade advisory council; (2)  advise the Governor and Legislature on matters that affect the state's export assistance efforts; (3)  evaluate proposals concerning enhancement, coordination, and program structure of the state's activities in international trade; (4)  consult with state agencies and agricultural commissions on the promotion of Washington goods and services overseas; and (5)  request or accept gifts and grants to defray the cost of hosting foreign dignitaries and for other office expenses.

State agencies may temporarily assign staff to assist in the duties and responsibilities of the office. 

Votes on Final Passage:

House     94 0

Senate    43 5 (Senate amended)

House     90 0 (House concurred)

Effective:  July 23, 1995

Partial Veto Summary: The veto removes specific reference to the Governor's appointment of the special trade representative and administrative duties of the special trade representative.