SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6607

                    As of January 31, 2000

Title:  An act relating to assuring accountability in delivery of human services.

Brief Description:  Allowing a writ of mandate when the department of social and health services fails to perform specified duties.

Sponsors:  Senators Hargrove and Fairley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections:  2/1/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Jennifer Strus (786-7484)

Background:  The Legislature is frustrated that the Department of Social and Health Services is not consistently implementing legislative directives.

Summary of Bill:  A writ of mandate (mandamus) may be issued when the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) fails to provide a statutorily mandated report to the Legislature.  A writ of mandate may be issued when DSHS fails to meet a statutory mandate or does not implement a statute that requires the department to perform a duty.  A legislator is a party of interest and has standing to seek a writ as provided in the bill.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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