Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Commerce & Labor Committee

SB 6328

Brief Description:  Changing the definition of cherry harvest temporary labor camp.

Sponsors:  Senators Parlette, Gardner, Hale, Honeyford, Rasmussen and Oke.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Allows cherry harvest temporary labor camps to be used for the period beginning one week before cherry harvest begins to one week after harvest ends in the state.

Hearing Date:  2/27/02

Staff:  Chris Cordes (786‑7103).

Background:

Cherry harvest temporary labor camps are temporary housing camps that agricultural employers provide to their employees for a limited period.  These cherry harvest temporary labor camps are regulated under rules adopted jointly by the Department of Labor and Industries and the Department of Health.  The rules are allowed to differ from the standards that apply to temporary worker housing intended for longer occupancy, but must be as effective as the standards adopted under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act.  The cherry harvest temporary labor camp rules govern various requirements, including requirements for licensure, siting, water supply, electricity, washing and bathing facilities, toilet facilities, and cooking facilities.  The rules permit tents to be used if the tents meet certain specifications.

Cherry harvest temporary labor camps are permitted for no more than 21 days in a calendar year, unless occupancy is extended after:  (1) the secretary of the Department of Health and the local health jurisdiction determine that the health and safety interests of the occupants would be better served by extending occupancy than by closing the camp; and (2) the operator requests an extension at least three days prior to the expiration of the 21-day period.  If granted, the extended occupancy period may not exceed seven days.

Summary of Bill:

The 28-day maximum period permitted for occupancy of cherry harvest temporary labor camps in a calendar year is deleted.  Instead, these camps may be occupied by those employed in harvesting cherries for a period that begins one week before the cherry crop harvest commences and ends one week after the conclusion of the harvest within the state.

Rules Authority:  The bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule-making powers of an agency.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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