SB 5901

SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5901

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.

As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Economic Development, Trade & Management, February 7, 2007

Title: An act relating to the responsibilities of the Washington quality award council.

Brief Description: Requiring the Washington quality award council to provide certain training and services.

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Management: 2/07/07 [DP-WM].

Majority Report: Do pass and be referred to Committee on Ways & Means.Signed by Senators Kastama, Chair; Kilmer, Vice Chair; Zarelli, Ranking Minority Member; Clements, Kauffman and Shin.

Background: The Malcolm Baldridge Award has set standards for excellence, encouraged organizational self-assessment, identified successful organizations as role models, and promoted a commitment to quality improvement. The Washington Quality Award Council was created in 1994 to further these same goals and oversee the Washington State Quality Award Program. In addition, the council may conduct public information, research, education, and assistance programs to further quality improvement in the state.

Summary of Bill: The Washington Quality Award Council is to provide training to technical assistance providers in continuous quality improvement, performance measurement, and strategic planning, to help businesses reduce operating costs, improve effectiveness, and increase productivity. In addition, the Council is to employ a public sector and a private sector manager to engage in a variety of activities to assist organizations, agencies and businesses in developing and implementing quality management, accountability and performance systems.

Appropriation: $200, 000 for fiscal year 2008; $200,000 for fiscal year 2009.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The Quality Award Council has provided over $1 million in volunteer time to help companies. This bill will allow the council to become the premier organization to assist others achieve excellence. The resources in the bill will assist in expanding services and increase work with other organizations.