FINAL BILL REPORT

                  SSB 5370

                           C 30 L 95

                      Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Authorizing use of credit cards by local governments.

Sponsors:  Senate Committee on Government Operations (originally sponsored by Senators Hale, Winsley, Haugen and Wood).

Senate Committee on Government Operations

House Committee on Government Operations

Background:  In 1984, municipal corporations and political subdivisions were given the authority to allow officers and employees to use charge cards to pay for authorized travel expenses.

The officer's or employee's travel expense voucher must be submitted within ten days of the billing date for the charge card.

Summary:   Local governments and political subdivisions have the option of using credit cards for official governmental purchases or acquisitions.  Local government is empowered to contract for the issuance of the credit cards.  The legislative body of the local government establishes the credit limits, implements and administers the system.  Cash advances are prohibited.

Any system that is adopted is subject to examination by the State Auditor.

The phrase "credit card" is broadly defined.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate    44 4

House     94 3

Effective:  July 23, 1995