HB 1249-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Authorizes a contract with the federal internal revenue service or other federal agencies to issue conditional federal employer identification numbers at specified offices and locations of a state agency in conjunction with any application for state licenses.

     Provides that, to the extent permitted by any contract with the federal internal revenue service, the department may contract, under chapter 39.34 RCW, with any agency of state or local government which is participating in the master licensing program to issue conditional federal employer identification numbers in conjunction with applications for state licenses under chapter 19.02 RCW.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1249-S

                   April 16, 1997

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 7, Substitute House Bill No. 1249 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to state agencies issuing federal employer identification numbers;"

     Substitute House Bill No. 1249 simplifies the licensing and registration process for businesses operating in the state.  It allows the state to contract with the Internal Revenue Service and other federal agencies, so that businesses will be able to obtain their federal employer identification numbers ("FEIN") and other federal credentials through the state in one step, as part of the state licensing process, rather than applying separately to the state and each federal agency.

     The new process will reduce paperwork for new businesses and will make FEINs immediately available, allowing new businesses to get started earlier.  Our Business License Center has been operating well and I support taking the next step to increase efficiency and add convenience for businesses as they seek a master license to operate in our state.

     This legislation includes an emergency clause in section 7 that would establish July 1, 1997 as the effective date of the bill.  This legislation is not necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions.

     For this reason, I have vetoed section 7 of Substitute House Bill No. 1249.  With the exception of section 7, Substitute House Bill No. 1249 is approved.

                    Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor