SENATE BILL REPORT

SJR 8210

As of January 31, 2001

Brief Description:  Requiring initiatives to specify funding sources.

Sponsors:  Senators Deccio, T. Sheldon, Honeyford, Rasmussen, Benton, Prentice, Oke, Jacobsen, Franklin, Thibaudeau, B. Sheldon, Shin, McCaslin, Parlette, Winsley, Fraser, Costa, Sheahan, Hewitt, Carlson, Regala, Kohl‑Welles, McAuliffe and Kline.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  State & Local Government:  2/1/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff:  Eugene Green (786‑7405)

Background:  If an initiative to the people or to the Legislature requires public funds for its implementation, there is no requirement that the initiative specify the source of the public funds.

Summary of Bill:  If an initiative to the people or to the Legislature requires public funds for its implementation, the initiative must either specify an increase in an existing state revenue source or provide a new tax or fee, or combination thereof, adequate to fully implement the program.  If the additional revenue is not adequate to fund the requirements of the initiative, the initiative is null and void in its entirety.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.