BILL REQ. #:  S-1941.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/24/05.   

     AN ACT Relating to studying the economic and social contribution of agricultural fairs to Washington state; and creating new sections.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature recognizes that agricultural fairs and fairgrounds provide numerous economic and social benefits to Washington state. The enhancements of tourism, promotion of local commerce, rural economic development, disaster preparedness, and opportunities for youth are all part of the multifaceted, year-round fair industry.
     Fairgrounds host a variety of commercial and social events year round. They offer educational, cultural, and entertainment events, promote youth development, and contribute to community cohesiveness. Fairs and fairgrounds provide community groups with fund-raising opportunities that, in turn, provide a variety of social benefits to the community.
     Participants and attendees contribute to the local economy through purchase of food, lodging, and supplies. Fair operations also contribute to the local economy through the purchase of equipment, materials, supplies, advertising, hiring local labor, and numerous other elements that are related to the operations of the fairgrounds.
     The best interest of the state is achieved when we encourage all venues that enhance economic and social viability. Our rural communities gain from the benefits flowing from the fair industry. It is the intent of the legislature to quantify the economic and social impact of fairs on Washington state; to maintain funding mechanisms that support the capital needs of fairs; and to assess options for new capital funding sources to support fairs.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   Subject to the availability of funds appropriated specifically for this purpose, the department of agriculture shall contract for a study on the economic and social impact of agricultural fairs on Washington state. This study shall include, but is not limited to, developing information on (1) the statewide and local impacts of fairs on employment, business income, taxes resulting from fair activity, civic and charitable organizations, youth development, and other business and social benefits, and (2) needed capital improvements. The study shall seek assistance from the department of community, trade, and economic development to quantify the contribution by fairs and fairgrounds in attracting tourism to the state. An advisory group, appointed by the board of the Washington state fairs association, will help guide the study. The advisory group will include, but is not limited to, a staff person with expertise in economic analysis from the office of financial management, the house of representatives, and the senate. The department shall submit the report to the office of financial management and the appropriate committees of the legislature no later than June 30, 2006.