Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Commerce & Labor Committee |
HB 1280
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 the expiration of explosives licenses issued under chapter 70.74 RCW.
Sponsors: Representatives Condotta, Chandler, Crouse, Kretz, Kristiansen and Armstrong.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/23/09
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106)
Background:
Under the Washington State Explosives Act, a license issued by the Department of Labor and Industries (Department) is required to manufacture, purchase, sell, use, or store explosives. Licensees must be at least 21 years of age, not have been convicted of a violent offense, and meet other qualifications. By rule, applicants for user licenses must meet specified experience, exam, and training qualifications, depending on the type of blasting the applicant will perform. Experience, training, and exam requirements are also set forth for renewal of user licenses. Applicants for all new and renewal licenses must also undergo a fingerprint-based criminal history background check.
A license expires one year from the date issued, except that the Director of the Department (Director) may extend storage licenses for permanent facilities to two years under certain conditions. License fees for each type of license are set in statute, and the Director may adjust the fees to reflect the administrative costs of the Department up to a specified maximum for each type of license. The fee for a user license, for example, is $50, and the Department may adjust the fee up to $400. Applicants must also pay the current federal and state fee for the background check.
Certain explosives licensees must also obtain a federal permit from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Summary of Bill:
Explosives licenses are changed from annual to three-year licenses.
Rules Authority: The bill does not address the rule-making powers of an agency.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.