1500 AMH SIMP LIDM 020

HB 1500 - H AMD

By Representative Simpson

   On page 6, line 9, strike all of section 12 and insert the following material:

   "NEW SECTION. Sec. 12. (1) When the presiding judge of the applicable division of the state court of appeals is notified of the petition transmission under section 11(2) of this act, the presiding judge shall appoint a special master to:

   (a) Gather facts, conduct hearings, and review evidence;

   (b) Make recommendations to the court regarding the division of assets and liabilities between the proposed new county and the parent county or counties in accordance with sections 13 through 18 of this act; and

   (c) Make findings regarding the long-term financial viability of the proposed new county.

   (2) The principal proponent of the proposed new county and the legislative authority of any parent county or counties from which territory is to be stricken are proper parties to this proceeding and may recommend individuals to serve as the special master."

   On page 6, line 21, after "agencies," insert "including boundary review boards established under chapter 36.93 RCW,"

   On page 8, at the beginning of line 9, strike "enter" and insert ": (a) Enter"

   On page 8, line 13, after "is" strike "final." and insert "final; and (b) Direct the special master to provide a report on the long-term financial viability of the proposed new county to the court of appeals, the appropriate committees of the legislature, and the principal proponent of the proposed new county."

   On page 8, line 20, after "after" strike "certification under section 11(1)" and insert "receipt of the special master's report under section 17(1)(b)"

   On page 8, line 23, after "county" insert "if the proposed new county is found to be financially viable under section 17(1)(b) of this act"

   On page 8, line 25, after "section" insert "and the proposed new county is found to be financially viable under section 17(1)(b) of this act"

EFFECT: Requires the special master to make and report findings on the long-term financial viability of the proposed new county to the court, Legislature, and proponents. Changes the timeline for legislative action from the first regular session after receipt of notice to the first regular session after receipt of the special master's report. Prevents legislative referral or automatic referral to the voters if the special master's report makes a finding of financial non-viability. Allows the special master to consult with boundary review boards.