Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1195

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Preserving regulatory assistance provisions.

Sponsors: Representatives Linville, Hunt, Armstrong, Kenney and Haigh; by request of Office of Financial Management.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Extends the Office of Regulatory Assistance sunset date to 2011.
  • Allows assistance to project proponents as well applicants.
  • Provides for periodic permitting assistance.
  • Adds requirements to biennial performance report.
  • Makes cost reimbursement changes.

Hearing Date: 1/30/07

Staff: Colleen Kerr (786-7168).

Background:

The Office of Regulatory Assistance (ORA) was created by the Legislature in 2003. The ORA serves as the nexus for state agencies that exercise the regulatory function of state government, including:

It is a central point of access for the public to provide one-stop service for permitting and regulatory assistance. The ORA also works among agencies to coordinate and simplify the permitting regulatory system. In addition to permit assistance, the ORA spearheads the Online Business Portal. The Online Business Portal is developing integrated online access to government services through a single, secure website and aligning online services between state and local entities.

The ORA's authorizing statute includes a sunset date of June 30, 2007. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) submitted its sunset review on January 4, 2007. That review recommended extending the ORA's sunset date to 2011 and that the ORA should develop an implementation plan to remedy the agency's lack of information about its activities. The JLARC also recommended that the ORA should report to the Legislature by June 2008 to demonstrate performance and compliance with statutory duties.

Summary of Bill:

Preserves the Office of Regulatory Assistance through 2011 and makes other changes to the authorizing statute.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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