HB 1690 - DIGEST

     Declares an intent to assist rural distressed areas in their ongoing efforts to address these difficult economic problems by providing a comprehensive and significant array of economic tools, necessary to harness the persistent and undaunted spirit of enterprise that resides in the citizens of rural distressed areas throughout the state.

     Declares a further intent 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-based;

     (3) an array of community assistance including infrastructure development and business retention, attraction, and expansion programs that will provide a competitive advantage to rural distressed areas 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 distressed areas.

     Establishes within the department of community, trade, and economic development the office of business assistance and recruitment for rural distressed areas.  The primary responsibilities of the office are to coordinate and administer a comprehensive and effective set of business assistance programs and services.