WASHINGTON STATE LEGISLATURE
Legislative Digest No. 26

SIXTIETH LEGISLATURE
Tuesday, February 19, 200837th Day - 2008 Regular Session

SENATE
SB 5387-SSB 5723SB 5927SB 6348-SSB 6386SB 6868SB 6950
HOUSE
HB 1561-SHB 1873-S2HB 2549-S2HB 2592-SHB 2601-SHB 2613HB 2631-S
HB 2635-SHB 2674-SHB 2693-SHB 2722-SHB 2807-SHB 2817-SHB 2963-S
HB 3051-SHB 3115-S2HB 3116-SHB 3129-SHB 3139-SHB 3145-SHB 3159-S
HB 3221-SHB 3245-SHB 3254-SHB 3259-SHB 3260-S

This publication includes digest and history for bills, joint memorials, joint resolutions, concurrent resolutions, initiatives, and substitutes. Engrossed measures may be republished if the amendment makes a substantive change.

Electronic versions of Legislative Digests are available at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/digests.aspx?year=2008.


House Bills

HB 1561-S

by House Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Representatives Jarrett, Clibborn, Goodman, Springer, Eddy, Rodne, and Sullivan)


Granting authority of a watershed management partnership to exercise powers of its forming governments.


(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


     Provides that a watershed management partnership formed under the authority of RCW 39.34.210, and a separate legal entity established by such a partnership to conduct the cooperative undertaking of the partnership under the same statutory authority, may exercise the power of eminent domain as provided in chapter 8.12 RCW.

Provides that the eminent domain authority granted under this act may be exercised only for those utility purposes for which the watershed management partnership was formed.

Applies only to a watershed management partnership that: (1) Was formed before July 1, 2006, under the authority of RCW 39.34.200 and 39.34.210;

(2) Is not engaged in planning or in implementing a plan for a water resource inventory area under the terms of chapter 90.82 RCW;

(3) Is composed entirely of cities and water-sewer districts authorized to exercise the power of eminent domain in the manner provided by chapter 8.12 RCW; and

(4) Is governed by a board of directors consisting entirely of elected officials from the cities and water-sewer districts that constitute the watershed management partnership.
-- 2007 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 2Public hearing in committee.
Feb 14Executive session in committee.
JUDI - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 16Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 28Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Mar 71st substitute bill substituted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 75; nays, 21; absent, 0; excused, 2.
-- IN THE SENATE --
Mar 8First reading, referred to Judiciary.
Mar 21Public hearing in committee.
Mar 23Executive session in committee.
Mar 27JUD - Majority; do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Apr 3Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Apr 22Referred to Rules.
By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Jan 14By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
House Rules "X" file.
Feb 6Placed on third reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Rules suspended.
Returned to second reading for amendment.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 77; nays, 17; absent, 0; excused, 4.
-- IN THE SENATE --
Feb 16First reading, referred to Judiciary.

HB 1873-S2

by House Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Representatives Ormsby, Haler, Pedersen, Wood, VanDeWege, Campbell, Flannigan, Kessler, Williams, and Lantz)


Changing the requirements for, and recoveries under, a wrongful injury or death cause of action, or a survival action.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 2ND SUBSTITUTE)


Revises the requirements for, and recoveries under, a wrongful injury or death cause of action.
-- 2007 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 16Public hearing in committee.
Feb 27Executive session in committee.
Mar 3Public hearing and executive action taken in committee.
Mar 27Public hearing in committee.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 4JUDI - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations.
Feb 11APP - Executive action taken by committee.
APP - Majority; 3rd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 153rd substitute bill substituted.

HB 2549-S2

by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Seaquist, Lantz, Morrell, Liias, Barlow, and Green)


Establishing a patient-centered primary care collaborative program.


(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Provides that within funds appropriated for this purpose, and with the goal of catalyzing and providing financial incentives for the rapid expansion of primary care practices that use the medical home model, the department of health shall offer primary care practices an opportunity to participate in a medical home collaborative program.

Requires the collaborative program to be structured to promote adoption of medical homes in a variety of primary care practice settings throughout the state and consider different populations, geographic locations, including at least one location that would agree to operate extended hours, which could include nights or weekends, and other factors to allow a broad application of medical home adoption, including rural communities and areas that are medically underserved.

Declares that as part of a required five-year plan to change reimbursement the health care authority and department of social and health services must expand their assessment on changing reimbursement for primary care to support adoption of medical homes to include medicare, other federal and state payors, and third-party payors, including health carriers under Title 48 RCW and other self-funded payors.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 6APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 12Placed on second reading.
Feb 142nd substitute bill substituted.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 94; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.
-- IN THE SENATE --
Feb 16First reading, referred to Health & Long-Term Care.

HB 2592-S

by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Morrell and VanDeWege)


Modifying vendor overpayment provisions.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides that if an overpayment by a vendor is discovered by the department of social and health services prior to discovery and notice by the vendor, the accrual period for which interest shall be collected begins thirty days after the date of notice by the department to the vendor.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 11APP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.

HB 2601-S

by House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Hunt, Hasegawa, Hudgins, Ormsby, Chase, and Simpson)


Regarding signature gatherers for petitions.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides that all businesses operating in this state engaged in the activity of collecting signatures for state or local initiative, referendum, or recall petitions and that are using paid signature gatherers must register with the commission. All individuals employed by businesses operating in this state engaged in the activity of collecting signatures for state or local initiative, referendum, or recall petitions must register with the commission. Registration is valid for only one state or local initiative, referendum, or recall petition.

Provides that a registered paid signature gatherer who submits fraudulent signatures will have his or her registration number revoked and is prohibited from registering for five years.

Provides that this act does not apply to individuals who volunteer to engage in the activity of collecting signatures for state or local initiative, referendum, or recall petitions.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5SGTA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 6Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government & Audit Review.
Feb 7APPG - Executive action taken by committee.
APPG - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

HB 2613

by Representatives Simpson, Hudgins, Ormsby, Hunt, Wood, Campbell, and Chase


Reducing the environmental impact of cleaning state facilities.


(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Requires all state agencies that purchase cleaning products or services to ensure that cleaning products have properties that minimize potential impacts to human health and the environment consistent with maintenance of the effectiveness of these products for the protection of public health and safety.

Provides the department of general administration, upon renewal of a lease and for all new leases, must require lessors and building managers who provide leased space to state agencies to use environmentally preferred products and practices.

Provides that when procuring cleaning products, state agencies shall purchase environmentally preferred products or document the reasons for selecting nonpreferred products.

Encourages local governments and school districts to review their purchasing and use of cleaning products and select those having properties that minimize potential impacts to human health and the environment consistent with this act.

Requires state agencies to transition to cleaning products having properties that minimize potential impacts to human health and the environment within six months of the effective date of this act in a manner that avoids waste of existing inventories, accommodates establishment of supply chains for new products, enables the training of personnel in appropriate work practices, and allows the phase out of products and practices inconsistent with this act.

Provides nothing in this act prohibits the use of disinfectants, disinfecting cleaners, sanitizers, or any other antimicrobial product regulated by the federal insecticide, fungicide, and rodenticide act (7 U.S.C. Sec. 136 et seq.), provided that the use of these products is in accordance with responsible cleaning procedure requirements.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Jan 11Prefiled for introduction.
Jan 14First reading, referred to Select Committee on Environmental Health.
Jan 15ENVH - Executive action taken by committee.
ENVH - Majority; do pass.
Jan 17Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Jan 29Made eligible to be placed on second reading.
Feb 6Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Rules suspended.
Returned to second reading for amendment.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 92; nays, 1; absent, 0; excused, 4.
-- IN THE SENATE --
Feb 16First reading, referred to Water, Energy & Telecommunications.

HB 2631-S

by House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Linville, Kretz, and Sullivan)


Regarding the office of regulatory assistance.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Creates the office of regulatory assistance to work to continually improve the function of environmental and business regulatory processes by identifying conflicts and overlap in the state's rules, statutes, and operational practices. The office of regulatory assistance is also created to provide businesses with active assistance for all permitting, licensing, and other regulatory procedures required for completion of specific projects. Further, the office of regulatory assistance is created to ensure that citizens, businesses, and local governments have access to, and clear information regarding, regulatory processes for permitting and business regulation, including state rules, permit and license requirements, and agency rule-making processes.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 1SGTA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government & Audit Review.
Feb 7APPG - Executive action taken by committee.
APPG - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 13Placed on second reading.
Feb 142nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 2635-S

by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representative Quall)


Regarding school district boundaries and organization.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides the superintendent shall designate an individual to serve as the statewide chair and be a nonvoting member of each regional committee created under RCW 28A.315.015. The statewide chair designated under this act shall be an employee or a contractor of the office of the superintendent of public instruction. The purpose of designating a statewide chair is to ensure conformity of the regional committees to legal procedures and rules regarding the committees' consideration of petitions; provide consistency in the application of laws, rules, criteria, and procedures across the state; offer expertise in issues related to school district organization; and provide expertise in managing meetings and conducting public hearings to enhance the deliberation of regional committees. The statewide chair shall also provide training for members of regional committees, including coordinating any training offered under RCW 28A.315.185, and provide assistance to educational service district superintendents in carrying out the responsibilities assigned under this act.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 6Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on Education.
Feb 7APPE - Executive action taken by committee.
APPE - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Made eligible to be placed on second reading.
Feb 15Placed on second reading.

HB 2674-S

by House Committee on Health Care & Wellness (originally sponsored by Representatives Barlow, Morrell, Moeller, Conway, Simpson, and Kenney; by request of Governor Gregoire)


Modifying credentialing standards for counselors.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Modifies credentialing standards for counselors.

Requires hypnotherapists to be registered to practice by the department of health unless they are exempt.

Authorizes the secretary of health to establish education equivalency, examination, supervisory, consultation, and continuing education requirements for certified counselors.

Requires agency affiliated counselors to notify the department of health if they are either no longer employed by the agency identified on their application or are now employed with another agency, or both. Agency affiliated counselors may not engage in the practice of counseling unless they are currently affiliated with an agency.

Requires the secretary of health to issue a trainee certificate to any applicant who demonstrates to the satisfaction of the secretary that he or she is working toward certain education and experience requirements.

Establishes the Washington state certified counselors and hypnotherapist advisory committee.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 4HCW - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations.
Feb 11APP - Executive action taken by committee.
APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 12Placed on second reading.
Feb 132nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 2693-S

by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Morrell, Darneille, Moeller, Hudgins, Eddy, Upthegrove, Campbell, McIntire, Conway, O'Brien, Simpson, Kenney, Wood, and Sells)


Regarding training and certification of long-term care workers.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides that long-term care workers must meet the basic training requirements established in this act.

Directs the department of social and health services to develop a long-term care worker certification examination to evaluate whether applicants possess the minimum skills and knowledge necessary to practice competently.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 11APP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.

HB 2722-S

by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Pettigrew, Kenney, Morris, Sullivan, Hasegawa, Upthegrove, Loomis, Pedersen, Darneille, Conway, Hudgins, Quall, Ericks, Kagi, and Ormsby)


Creating an advisory committee to address the achievement gap for African-American students.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Finds that of all the challenges confronting the African-American community, perhaps none is more critical to the future than the education of African-American children. The data regarding inequities, disproportionality, and gaps in achievement is alarming.

Requires that the center for the improvement of student learning in the office of the superintendent of public instruction shall convene an advisory committee to craft a strategic plan to address the achievement gap for African-American students.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 4ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations.
Feb 11APP - Executive action taken by committee.
APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 12Placed on second reading.
Feb 132nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 2807-S

by House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Schual-Berke, Hunt, Lantz, Cody, Hudgins, Ormsby, Miloscia, Appleton, Green, Wood, Hankins, and Kagi)


Regarding the electronic submittal and publication of voters' pamphlet information.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides that the secretary of state shall make voters' pamphlet information available to the public on his or her web site.

Provides that candidates are encouraged to submit digital photographs and statements electronically for the voters' pamphlet.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5SGTA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 6Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government & Audit Review.
Feb 7APPG - Executive action taken by committee.
APPG - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

HB 2817-S

by House Committee on Select Committee on Environmental Health (originally sponsored by Representatives Campbell, Green, Morrell, Hudgins, and McCune)


Concerning motor vehicles, vehicles, and vessels contaminated with methamphetamines.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Requires the disposal of motor vehicles, vehicles, and vessels contaminated with methamphetamines.

Makes it unlawful to sell motor vehicles, vehicles, and vessels contaminated with methamphetamines.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5ENVH - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 6Referred to Transportation.
Feb 8TR - Executive action taken by committee.
TR - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 182nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 2963-S

by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Conway, Campbell, Chase, Hasegawa, Sullivan, Simpson, Seaquist, Appleton, Sells, Wood, Green, Blake, Ericks, Kenney, Williams, McIntire, Pettigrew, Kirby, Moeller, Fromhold, Hunt, VanDeWege, Ormsby, and Hudgins)


Authorizing collective bargaining for Washington State University employees who are enrolled in academic programs.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Promotes cooperative labor relations between Washington State University and the employees who provide instructional, research, and related academic services, and who are enrolled as students at the university by extending collective bargaining rights and using the orderly procedures administered by the public employment relations commission.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 11APP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 151st substitute bill substituted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 62; nays, 32; absent, 0; excused, 4.

HB 3051-S

by House Committee on Finance (originally sponsored by Representatives Seaquist, Lantz, Clibborn, Hunter, Liias, Rolfes, and Green)


Concerning sales and use tax on transportation projects.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Addresses the distribution and use of the sales and use tax on certain transportation projects.

Clarifies that if a deferral has been granted the taxes otherwise due under chapters 82.08 and 82.12 RCW on the site preparation for, the construction of, the acquisition of any related machinery and equipment that will become a part of, and the rental of equipment for use in the state route number 16 corridor improvements need not be repaid.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 12FIN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 151st substitute bill substituted.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 94; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.

HB 3115-S2

by House Committee on Apps Subcom GG (originally sponsored by Representatives Kenney, Skinner, Green, Wallace, Haler, Chase, Rodne, Conway, Morrell, Linville, VanDeWege, Loomis, Kelley, Rolfes, Liias, Ormsby, and Darneille)


Concerning small business incubators.


(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Declares that the purpose of small business incubators is to provide comprehensive business assistance to start-up and early-stage firms in order to improve their chances of growing into healthy, sustainable companies.

Redefines "business incubator" as a facility or program that provides, on an on-going basis, business-related training, services, and technical assistance to businesses that are less than five years old and have ten or fewer employees at the time of admission to the facility or program.

Requires the department of community, trade, and economic development to develop a certification program for small business incubators.

Requires that all qualified small business incubators are required annually to collect data for each client business.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 7APPG - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 13Placed on second reading.
Feb 142nd substitute bill substituted.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 94; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.
-- IN THE SENATE --
Feb 16First reading, referred to Economic Development, Trade & Management.

HB 3116-S

by House Committee on Finance (originally sponsored by Representatives Kessler, Orcutt, Ericks, Linville, Newhouse, Armstrong, Grant, VanDeWege, Williams, Pearson, and Ormsby)


Extending the sales and use tax exemptions to machinery and equipment used to produce electricity using certain organic materials and byproducts of pulping or wood manufacturing processes.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Extends the sales and use tax exemptions related to machinery and equipment used in generating electricity to machinery and equipment used to produce electricity using certain organic materials and byproducts of pulping or wood manufacturing processes.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 12FIN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Made eligible to be placed on second reading.

HB 3129-S

by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Schmick, Anderson, Quall, Simpson, and Ormsby)


Regarding online learning programs for high school students to earn college credit.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to compile information about online learning programs for high school students to earn college credit and to place the information on its web site.

Requires high schools to ensure that teachers and counselors have information about online learning programs for high school students to earn college credit and are able to assist parents and students in accessing the information.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 4ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on Education.
Feb 7APPE - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 152nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 3139-S

by House Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Conway, Wood, Green, Moeller, Simpson, and Ormsby)


Providing for stays of industrial insurance orders on appeal.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides an order by the department of labor and industries awarding benefits shall become effective and benefits due on the date issued. Subject to this act, if the department order is appealed the order shall not be stayed pending a final decision on the merits unless ordered by the board.

Provides if upon reconsideration requested by a worker or medical provider, the department has ordered an increase in a permanent partial disability award from the amount reflected in an earlier order, the award reflected in the earlier order shall not be stayed pending a final decision on the merits.

Provides if a self-insured employer appeals an order setting the claimant's time loss rate, the claimant shall receive any time loss or pension benefits based upon the rate calculation that the employer most recently submitted to the department and payment of benefits at this rate shall not be stayed pending a final decision on the merits.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5CL - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 6Referred to Appropriations.
Feb 11APP - Executive action taken by committee.
APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 15Placed on second reading.

HB 3145-S

by House Committee on Early Learning & Children's Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Kagi, Haler, Roberts, Walsh, Pettigrew, Dickerson, Conway, Green, Goodman, Kenney, Wood, and Ormsby)


Implementing a tiered classification system for foster parent licensing.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Requires the department of social and health services to select two or more geographic areas with high concentrations of high-needs children in foster care for the implementation of phase one of a specialized foster parent program. During phase one of the implementation of the program, only state-licensed foster parents shall be eligible to participate in the program.

Requires the department of social and health services to report to the governor and the appropriate members of the legislature by January 1, 2009, and to identify the essential elements of the specialized foster parent program that should be addressed or replicated as the program is expanded to the next phase.

Applies collective bargaining provisions to the governor with respect to specialized foster care home providers.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 1ELCS - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 4Minority; without recommendation.
Feb 5Referred to Appropriations.
Feb 11APP - Executive action taken by committee.
APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 12Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 152nd substitute bill substituted.

HB 3159-S

by House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Chandler, Roach, Dunn, Bailey, and McCune)


Improving voter registration integrity.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Requires the summoning court to immediately notify the applicant, county auditor, and secretary of state if it receives a written declaration or otherwise learns that a declarant does not meet the qualifications set forth in RCW 2.36.070 (1), (2), (3), or (5).

Provides a voter application is considered complete only if it contains the applicant's full legal name, complete valid residence address, date of birth, signature attesting to the truth of the information provided, a mark in the check-off box confirming United States citizenship, a mark in the check-off box confirming no felony conviction or, if the applicant has a felony conviction, proof of restoration of voting rights, and an indication that the provided driver's license number, state identification card number, or Social Security number has been confirmed by the secretary of state.

Requires, once each year, the secretary of state to conduct an audit of county registration records regarding cancellation of deceased voters. The audit shall consist of a comparison of the deceased voter information received with the county registration records to ensure that the appropriate cancellations are made.

Provides whenever the secretary of state or a county auditor receives information from the courts regarding a juror's ineligibility to serve based on age, citizenship, residence, or felony conviction pursuant to RCW 2.36.072(3)(b), the secretary or county auditor shall verify the reason for ineligibility and take appropriate action to cancel or transfer the registration.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5SGTA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 6Referred to Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government & Audit Review.
Feb 7APPG - Executive action taken by committee.
APPG - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

HB 3221-S

by House Committee on Insurance, Financial Services & Consumer Protection (originally sponsored by Representatives Santos, Darneille, and Kenney)


Establishing the financial services intermediary.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Establishes the financial services intermediary in the department of financial institutions to improve the ability of low-income individuals to access and use mainstream financial products offered by financial institutions.

Requires the department of financial institutions and the department of community, trade, and economic development to jointly establish the financial services intermediary.

Provides that financial institutions and community-based asset building coalitions choosing to participate in the programs of the financial services intermediary shall enter into and comply with the terms of memoranda of agreement with the financial services intermediary.

Requires the department of financial institutions to track and monitor financial institutions' participation in the programs of the financial services intermediary and share this information with the intermediary.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5IFCP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Feb 6Referred to Finance.
Feb 12FIN - Executive action taken by committee.
FIN - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

HB 3245-S

by House Committee on Finance (originally sponsored by Representatives Liias, Orcutt, Ericks, Sells, Loomis, Ormsby, Grant, Condotta, Barlow, McIntire, Dunn, Conway, Kelley, and Kenney)


Concerning the excise taxation of the aerospace industry.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Declares that the comprehensive tax incentives in the act are intended to more comprehensively address the cost of doing business in Washington state compared to locations in other states for a larger segment of the aerospace industry cluster.

Provides definitions for "aerospace products" and "aerospace services".

Provides for a business and occupation tax calculation for persons classified as certain federal aviation repair stations.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 12FIN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.

HB 3254-S

by House Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Representatives Goodman, Pedersen, Simpson, Morrell, Green, Kelley, Kagi, and Roberts)


Concerning accountability for persons driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides that beginning January 1, 2009, any person licensed under chapter 46.20 RCW who is convicted of any offense involving the use, consumption, or possession of alcohol while operating a motor vehicle in violation of RCW 46.61.502 or 46.61.504, other than vehicular homicide or vehicular assault, or who has had or will have his or her license suspended, revoked, or denied under RCW 46.20.3101, may submit to the department of licensing an application for an ignition interlock driver's license.

Creates a pilot program for the purpose of monitoring compliance by persons required to use ignition interlock devices and by ignition interlock companies and vendors.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 5JUDI - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 6Referred to Transportation.
Feb 8TR - Executive action taken by committee.
TR - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Feb 11Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.

HB 3259-S

by House Committee on Finance (originally sponsored by Representatives Hunter, Hudgins, Schual-Berke, Upthegrove, and McIntire)


Addressing the financing and operation of port districts.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides, until July 1, 2010, a port district may not use levy proceeds or property tax derived from banked levy capacity under this act to pay, secure, or guarantee the payment of principal and interest on general obligation bonds issued after the effective date of this act. This act only applies to a port district in a county with a population of one million or more.

Establishes the legislative task force on Washington port district finance, governance, and management.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 12FIN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 14Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 151st substitute bill substituted.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 93; nays, 1; absent, 0; excused, 4.

HB 3260-S

by House Committee on Finance (originally sponsored by Representatives Grant, Santos, Eddy, Springer, Goodman, Warnick, Hinkle, Armstrong, Orcutt, Kelley, McIntire, and Ross; by request of Governor Gregoire)


Providing partial sales and use tax exemptions for certain computer server equipment.


(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)


Provides partial state sales and use tax exemptions in respect to the purchase or use of server equipment comprising only the server chassis and all computer hardware and software contained within the server chassis, where the server equipment replaces existing server equipment in certain buildings constructed or refurbished to house servers and located in a rural county as defined in RCW 82.14.370(5).

Provides that qualifying businesses claiming an exemption under this act must complete an annual survey.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 12FIN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.


Senate Bills

SB 5387-S

by Senate Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Senators Kastama, Kilmer, Kauffman, and Shin)


Promoting economic development through commercialization of technologies.


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Provides that, to the extent funds are appropriated for these purposes, and in addition to establishing a small business innovative research assistance program, the Washington technology center shall provide or contract for the provision of the following in conjunction with the state's public universities and colleges, private and federal research laboratories, and local and regional economic development and technology assistance organizations: (1) Develop and disseminate a guide to the technology commercialization process in the research and academic institutions in the state;

(2) Develop, maintain, and provide access to a database of technologies and inventions developed in the state available for commercialization and licensing;

(3) Offer training on the provision of commercialization assistance to technical assistance providers at the state's small business development centers, economic development councils, chambers of commerce, industry cluster associations, the Washington manufacturing service, and private consulting firms;

(4) Develop a funding resource guide, offer workshops on how to access financing for commercializing new technologies, provide opportunities for novice investors to learn about investing in technology-based companies, host events to connect entrepreneurs and investors, and maintain an interactive web site accessible by researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors; and

(5) Report on the impact of commercialization activities at Washington research institutions on an annual basis.
-- 2007 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 2Public hearing and executive action taken in committee.
Feb 12Public hearing in committee.
Feb 19Executive session in committee.
Feb 21WM - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Mar 12Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Mar 131st substitute bill substituted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 47; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 2.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Mar 15First reading, referred to Community & Economic Development & Trade.
Mar 26Public hearing in committee.
Mar 29Executive session in committee.
CEDT - Executive action taken by committee.
CEDT - Majority; do pass with amendment(s).
Mar 30Referred to Appropriations.
Apr 22By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
-- IN THE SENATE --
Jan 14By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Made eligible to be placed on third reading.
Feb 13Placed on third reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Rules suspended.
Returned to second reading for amendment.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 45; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.

SB 5723

by Senators Rasmussen, Clements, Hatfield, Roach, Shin, Morton, Kline, Schoesler, Haugen, Sheldon, Hargrove, Kohl-Welles, Fairley, Honeyford, Franklin, Keiser, Berkey, Kauffman, Kilmer, Jacobsen, Kastama, Benton, Zarelli, and Parlette


Creating and funding the community agricultural worker safety grant program.


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Finds that agricultural workers are challenged not only in finding full-time, year-round work, but also face difficulties in upgrading their agricultural skills. The legislature also finds that the agricultural industry's demand for skilled workers far outnumbers the current supply. In addition, the legislature finds that despite recent advances in the safety of agricultural production, additional training of agricultural workers should assist the agricultural sector in ongoing efforts to reduce occupational injuries.

Provides that, subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall administer the community agricultural worker safety grant program, to be implemented by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit opportunities industrialization center of Washington. As grant recipient, the center shall work with the agricultural industry to provide practical, hands-on training for the state's agricultural workers in tractor and farm machinery skills and safety, pesticide training, adult basic skills, civics, English as a second language, commercial drivers' licensing, and other related topics. The grant recipient may receive up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars per year.
-- 2007 REGULAR SESSION --
Jan 29First reading, referred to Agriculture & Rural Economic Development.
Feb 6Public hearing and executive action taken in committee.
Feb 7ARED - Majority; do pass.
And refer to Ways & Means.
Referred to Ways & Means.
Feb 19Public hearing and executive action taken in committee.
Feb 21WM - Majority; do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Mar 8Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Mar 14Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 49; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 0.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Mar 15First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor.
Mar 27Public hearing in committee.
Mar 30Executive session in committee.
CL - Executive action taken by committee.
CL - Majority; do pass with amendment(s).
Minority; do not pass.
Referred to Appropriations.
Apr 22By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
-- IN THE SENATE --
Jan 14By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Made eligible to be placed on third reading.
Feb 13Placed on third reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Rules suspended.
Returned to second reading for amendment.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 48; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 1.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Feb 18First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor.

SB 5927

by Senator Delvin


Regarding nondisclosure of certain information of gambling commission licensees. (REVISED FOR ENGROSSED: Regarding nondisclosure of certain information of gambling commission licensees and tribes with approved gaming compacts. )


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Exempts certain internal control documents from disclosure under the public records act.
-- 2007 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 7First reading, referred to Labor, Commerce, Research & Development.
Feb 27Public hearing, executive action taken, and executive action taken in committee.
Feb 28LCRD - Majority; do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Mar 8Made eligible to be placed on second reading.
Mar 10Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Mar 14Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 49; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 0.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Mar 15First reading, referred to State Government & Tribal Affairs.
Mar 28Public hearing in committee.
Mar 30Executive session in committee.
SGTA - Executive action taken by committee.
SGTA - Majority; do pass with amendment(s).
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Apr 22By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
-- IN THE SENATE --
Jan 14By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Made eligible to be placed on third reading.
Feb 6Placed on third reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Rules suspended.
Returned to second reading for amendment.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 45; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 4.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Feb 18First reading, referred to State Government & Tribal Affairs.

SB 6348-S

by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Telecommunications (originally sponsored by Senator Morton)


Protecting rural communities from the harmful impacts of interwatershed water rights transfers.


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Requires the department of ecology to work with various interested parties to assess the impacts of interwatershed transfers and existing water sources, including snowpack and potential new water sources, to protect rural communities.

The department of ecology must present its recommendations to the legislature by November 1, 2008.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 7WET - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 13Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 141st substitute bill substituted.
Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 46; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 3.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Feb 18First reading, referred to Agriculture & Natural Resources.

SB 6386

by Senators Stevens, Hargrove, Morton, Delvin, McCaslin, and Rasmussen


Concerning the publication of a minor's information.


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Declares an intent to criminalize conduct that is intended to provide a person the information necessary to commit a pedophilic act.

Makes it a crime of a gross misdemeanor to knowingly publish information relating to the location of children or a place where children regularly gather, or the specific time and location in which children or a particular child may be found, or the personal information of a child, for the purpose of arousing or gratifying the sexual desire of any person.

Authorizes civil proceedings to enjoin violations of this act, and for the recovery of damages.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Jan 16First reading, referred to Human Services & Corrections.
Feb 8HSC - Majority; do pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 12Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 47; nays, 0; absent, 1; excused, 1.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Feb 18First reading, referred to Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness.

SB 6868

by Senators Brown and Marr


Protecting sole source aquifers by providing sewer utility service to mobile home parks.


(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/14/2008)


Provides that certain eastern Washington cities and counties may require a mobile home park to connect to a sewer system under certain circumstances.

Provides that the county or city legislative authority requiring a mobile home park to connect to a sewer system should identify and extend, as applicable, those financial assistance programs it can access and provide to that mobile home park including local, state, or federal affordable housing programs, water quality protection grant and loan programs, and public health, safety, and welfare programs.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Jan 29First reading, referred to Water, Energy & Telecommunications.
Feb 7WET - Majority; do pass.
Minority; do not pass.
Passed to Rules Committee for second reading.
Feb 12Made eligible to be placed on second reading.
Feb 13Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.
Feb 14Floor amendment(s) adopted.
Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.
Third reading, passed; yeas, 32; nays, 16; absent, 0; excused, 1.
-- IN THE HOUSE --
Feb 18First reading, referred to Select Committee on Environmental Health.

SB 6950

by Senators Brown, Hewitt, Fraser, Brandland, Swecker, Hatfield, Rasmussen, Rockefeller, Stevens, Haugen, Zarelli, Pridemore, Parlette, Sheldon, Hobbs, Hargrove, Holmquist, Fairley, Prentice, Kauffman, Berkey, Kilmer, Kohl-Welles, Shin, Carrell, King, Schoesler, Morton, Delvin, Pflug, Honeyford, and Eide


Providing a limited waiver or suspension of statutory obligations during officially declared emergencies.


Provides that the governor after proclaiming a state of emergency and prior to terminating such may, in the area described by the proclamation, issue an order or orders concerning waiver or suspension of statutory obligations or limitations in any or all of the following areas as further specified and limited by this act: (1) Liability for participation in interlocal agreements;

(2) Inspection fees owed to the department of labor and industries;

(3) Application of the family emergency assistance program;

(4) Regulations, tariffs, and notice requirements under the jurisdiction of the utilities and transportation commission;

(5) Application of tax due dates and penalties relating to collection of taxes; and

(6) Permits for industrial, business, or medical uses of alcohol.

Provides that during a covered emergency, the department of community, trade, and economic development may enter into interlocal agreements under chapter 39.34 RCW with one or more public agencies for the purposes of providing mutual aid and cooperation to any public agency affected by the cause of the emergency.
-- 2008 REGULAR SESSION --
Feb 16Read first time, rules suspended, and placed on second reading calendar.
Feb 18Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading.