SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5180

As Passed Senate, February 21, 2003

Title: An act relating to modifying the name of the legislative committee on economic development.

Brief Description: Renaming the legislative committee on economic development the legislative committee on economic development and international relations.

Sponsors: Senators Hewitt, B. Sheldon, Hale, Benton, Rasmussen and Shin; by request of Lieutenant Governor.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development: 1/29/03 [DP].

Passed Senate: 2/21/03, 46-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Majority Report: Do pass.

      Signed by Senators T. Sheldon, Chair; Zarelli, Vice Chair; Benton, Hale, Rossi, Schmidt, B. Sheldon and Shin.

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: The Legislative Committee on Economic Development was created in 1985. Its purpose is to "provide responsive and consistent involvement by the legislature in economic development to maintain a healthy state economy and to provide employment opportunities to Washington residents." The authorizing legislation for the committee states that: "Economic development and in particular international trade, tourism, and investment have become increasingly important to Washington..." The name of the committee does not reflect this focus on international relations.

Summary of Bill: The name of the Legislative Committee on Economic Development is changed to the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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

Testimony For: The name change is more consistent with what the committee does and what it should be doing.

Testimony Against: None.

Testified: Lt. Governor Brad Owen (pro).