HB 2392-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Finds that while government services are provided to the citizens of the state of Washington through many mechanisms, the most prevalent delivery of services occurs through city, county, or state government actions.  Increased demand for these services and limited revenue to meet those services have led to unproductive competition between cities, counties, and the state for the revenue that is collected and shared between cities, counties, and the state.

     Finds that there is a need to evaluate the delivery of government services, the allotment of revenues, and the collection and distribution of various fines and forfeitures through the establishment of a joint task force on local governments.

     Finds that rules adopted by state agencies cause local governments to allocate funds to meet those rules that are not fully funded at the state level.

     Directs the joint task force on local governments to:  (1) Complete a thorough study of the delivery of government services, allotment of revenues, and collection and distribution of various fines and forfeitures; and

     (2) commence the study by July 1, 2000, present an interim report of its findings and any recommendations to the legislature by January 30, 2001, and present a final report, including proposed legislation, addressing its recommendations to the legislature by January 1, 2002.