| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Ecology & Parks Committee | |
HB 2850
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: Regarding Puget Sound scientific research.
Sponsors: Representatives Rolfes, Upthegrove, Williams, Pedersen and Hunt.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/22/08
Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).
Background:
The Puget Sound Scientific Research Account
The Puget Sound Scientific Research Account (Research Account) was created in 2007. Monies
in the Research Account may be used only for research programs and projects. The original 2007
legislation assigned the task of selecting research funded by the Research Account to the
Leadership Council of the Puget Sound Partnership (Leadership Council).
The Governor issued a partial veto to this legislation, removing the provision that directed the
Leadership Council to select the research funded from the Research Account. The veto message
also directed the Puget Sound Partnership to develop legislation that harmonies the
implementation of the Research Account with the overall Puget Sound recovery efforts.
The Puget Sound Science Panel
The Puget Sound Science Panel (Science Panel) is a nine-member body appointed by the
Leadership Council to assist the Puget Sound Partnership with the execution of its duties. The
role of the Science Panel includes the identification of environmental indicators and the offering
of an ecosystem wide scientific perspective. The Science Panel also is responsible for identifying
gaps in needed science and developing a competitive peer-review based process for funding
research and modeling projects.
Summary of Bill:
Expenditures from the Research Account are limited to research programs and projects selected
by a process developed and overseen by the Science Panel.
The Science Panel is required to develop and implement an appropriate process for the peer
review of monitoring, research, and modeling.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.