SB 5740-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Declares an intent of this act is to provide:  (1) A strategically designed plan of assistance, emphasizing state, local, and private sector leadership and partnership;

     (2) a comprehensive and significant array of business assistance, services, and tax incentives that are accountable and performance driven;

     (3) an array of community assistance including infrastructure development and business retention, attraction, and expansion programs that will provide a competitive advantage to rural communities throughout Washington; and

     (4) regulatory relief to reduce and streamline zoning, permitting, and regulatory requirements in order to enhance the capability of businesses to grow and prosper in rural communities.

     Declares that the primary goals are to:  (1) Promote the ongoing operation of business in rural communities;

     (2) promote the expansion of existing businesses in rural communities;

     (3) attract new businesses to rural communities;

     (4) assist in the development of new businesses from within rural communities;

     (5) provide family wage jobs to the citizens of rural communities; and

     (6) promote the development of communities of excellence in rural communities.

     Establishes the rural distressed areas economic recovery coordination board.

     Establishes the state office of business assistance and recruitment for rural communities.

     Designates a program for tax incentives.

     Revises provisions relating to community infrastructure.

     Provides for a rural community regulatory fairness act.

     Provides for reauthorization of existing programs.

     Makes a supplemental appropriation.

     Extends the expiration date for the rural natural resources impact area programs to June 30, 2000.

     Repeals RCW 43.31.651.