VETO MESSAGE ON HB 2313-S

                   March 25, 1998

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 5, Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2313 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to enforcement of the elevator and other conveyances law;"

     This bill assures uniform enforcement of safety standards for the wide variety of elevators and other conveyances used by the public.  It will enhance both public and worker safety.

     However, section 5 of ESHB 2313 would prohibit the Department of Labor and Industries from imposing new fees or increasing fees for the elevator inspection program without prior legislative approval, even when necessary to maintain the solvency of the program.  Such a requirement would cause delays that could jeopardize public safety and is unnecessary.  The Legislature has included a proviso in the budget which limits expenditures of the elevator program to a level that does not exceed the revenues generated by the program.  Furthermore, the department is already restricted by Initiative 601 as to the amount the fees can be increased.

     For these reasons, I have vetoed section 5 of Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2313.

     With the exception of section 5, I am approving Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 2313.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor