Title: An act relating to selecting economic benchmarks.

Brief Description: Concerning benchmarking mechanisms for the economic climate council.

Sponsors: Senators Kauffman, Kastama and Kilmer.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Management: 2/14/07, 2/16/07 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & MANAGEMENT

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Kastama, Chair; Kilmer, Vice Chair; Zarelli, Ranking Minority Member; Clements, Kauffman and Shin.

Staff: Jacob White (786-7448)

Background: The 1996 Legislature created the Economic Climate Council (ECC). The ECC is responsible for selecting a series of benchmarks that characterize the competitive environment of the state. The benchmarks are indicators of the quality of life, education and skills of the work force, infrastructure, and the costs of doing business. To ensure public participation, the ECC established an advisory committee to assist in the selection of the benchmarks.

Summary of Bill: The intent of the Legislature includes providing a benchmarking mechanism for the state's economy.
                              
The ECC is directed to work in consultation with the Washington economic development commission, instead of with the advisory committee, in creating benchmarks for the state economy, as well as providing for a process to ensure public participation in the selection of the benchmarks.

There is no limit on the number of benchmarks that the economic development commission and the ECC may set.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.