Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

 ANALYSIS

State Government Committee

 

 

HB 1651

Brief Description: Making unfunded mandates voluntary.

 

Sponsors: Representatives McMahan, Mielke, Boldt and Schindler.


Brief Summary of Bill

    Removes any requirement for a political subdivision to implement any unfunded mandate imposed by the state.


Hearing Date: 3/4/03


Staff: Anne Warwick (786-7291).


Background:


In 1993 Washington voters approved Initiative #601 (I601), establishing a general fund expenditure limit. Under the limit, state expenditures cannot grow at a greater rate than the average sum of inflation and population change during the previous three fiscal years. In addition to the limit on state expenditures, I601 established guarantees for local governments and other political entities. As a result of I601 state statute provides that: a) local governments are assured and provided adequate funds to render services deemed essential by their citizens; b) the state cannot impose responsibility on local governments for new programs or increased levels of service under existing programs unless the costs are paid by the state; and c) the state will provide for a cost adjustment when programs are transferred between the state and another political entity.


Summary of Bill:


If the state fails to provide a political subdivision for the necessary costs of meeting a state imposed requirement, the political subdivision may chose to comply with the requirement. A requirement loses it's mandatory nature and becomes a recommendation for the political subdivision if the state cannot provide sufficient funds necessary for implementing the requirement.


"Political subdivision" includes any political subdivision, local government, or taxing district created under state law.


Appropriation: None.


Fiscal Note: Not Requested.


Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.