SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2647

As Reported By Senate Committee On:

Economic Development, February 20, 2004

Title: An act relating to the Washington quality award council.

Brief Description: Continuing the existence of the Washington quality award council.

Sponsors: Representatives Miloscia, Haigh, McDermott, Wallace, Chase, Linville and Rockefeller.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development: 2/20/04 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Majority Report: Do pass.

      Signed by Senators T. Sheldon, Chair; Hale, Murray, B. Sheldon and Shin.

Staff: Rhoda Donkin (786-7198)

Background: The Washington Quality Award Council was organized by statute in 1994 as a private, nonprofit organization to oversee the Governor's Washington State Quality Achievement Award Program.

The council attempts to improve the overall competitiveness of the state's economy by stimulating industries, businesses, and organizations to bring about measurable success by setting standards of organization excellence, encouraging organizational self-assessment, identifying successful organizations, and promoting and strengthening a commitment to continuous quality improvement.

Through a process developed by the council, award recipients are approved and announced and annual presentations are made by the Governor.

This council ceases to exist on July 1, 2004, unless otherwise extended by law.

Summary of Bill: The termination date of July 1, 2004, for the Washington Quality Award Council is removed.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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

Testimony For: This program inspires companies to do their best. The council should be continued indefinitely.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: Rep. Mark Miloscia (pro).