SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6633

                    As of January 26, 1996

Title:  An act relating to products and services provided by community rehabilitation programs.

Brief Description:  Requiring state agencies to purchase from community rehabilitation programs.

Sponsors:  Senators Haugen and McDonald.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Government Operations:  1/30/96.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS

Staff:  Katie Healy (786-7403)

Background:  State agencies are encouraged to purchase products or services manufactured or provided by sheltered workshops and DSHS programs which operate facilities serving the handicapped and disadvantaged.

Sheltered workshops are group training homes and day training centers.

Concern has been expressed that the intent of this legislation is not being fulfilled.  There is also desire to have the language updated to reflect current terminology.

Summary of Bill:  The term "community rehabilitation programs" replaces the term "sheltered workshops."

State agencies must purchase products or services from community rehabilitation programs operating facilities serving the severely disabled and disadvantaged citizens of the state.  The need to further the state's policy of creating opportunities for citizens with severe disabilities through expanding the market for their products and services is recognized.

A State Use Commission is established, consisting of 12 members appointed by the Governor.  The commission must designate a single qualified central nonprofit agency to represent all community rehabilitation programs.  The designated agency presents requests to the commission to add products and services to a state use procurement list.  The contract specifications of quantity, quality, and price must be met.  The commission reviews and authorizes the placement of specified product and service contracts on the procurement list.  The designated agency must provide the commission with any needed reports to ensure the intent of this legislation is maintained.  The commission may adopt rules to implement these requirements.

Technical corrections are made.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 29, 1996.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.