SENATE BILL REPORT

                   HB 2472

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

              Commerce & Labor, February 23, 1998

Title:  An act relating to repealing public works board rural natural resources loans.

Brief Description:  Repealing public works board rural natural resources loans.

Sponsors:  Representatives Honeyford, Sehlin, Van Luven, Veloria and Ogden; by request of Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Commerce & Labor:  2/20/98, 2/23/98 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Schow, Chair; Horn, Vice Chair; Franklin, Fraser, Heavey and Newhouse.

Staff:  Genevieve Pisarski (786-7488)

Background:  Assistance to timber-dependent or salmon-dependent communities has been provided through the Community Economic Revitalization Board, the public works trust fund rural natural resources impact areas loan program, and a number of rural natural resources impact areas programs.

The Community Economic Revitalization Board provides loans and grants for infrastructure necessary to retain or create jobs, including a program targeted at timber-dependent or salmon-dependent communities for infrastructure to attract business to their area.  In 1997, the timber-salmon program was given an increased allocation and an extension of time to 2000.

The public works trust fund rural natural resources impact areas loan program provided loans for economic development infrastructure to rural communities experiencing timber or salmon-related job losses and unemployment rates above the state average.  It expired in 1997.

Other rural natural resources impact areas programs assist timber-dependent or salmon-dependent workers and communities with unemployment insurance, training, employment opportunities, and local economic development.  In 1997, repeal of these programs was extended to 2001.

Summary of Bill:  The public works trust fund rural natural resources impact areas loan program is repealed.  Various provisions added in 1997 to rural natural resources impact areas programs are designated for repeal in 2001. 

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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

Testimony For:  Reducing the number of funding sources that communities must use is more efficient and good policy. 

Testimony Against:  None

Testified:  Pete Butkus, CTED (pro).