HOUSE BILL REPORT

SHB 1369

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.

Sponsors: House Committee on Local Government & Housing (originally sponsored by Representatives Haler, Takko and Klippert).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Local Government & Housing: 2/2/09 [DPS].

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

Authorizes certain county officials to keep their main offices at a location other than the county seat, provided they maintain an office at the county seat.

Majority Report: The substitute bill be substituted therefor and the substitute bill do pass. Signed by 11 members: Representatives Simpson, Chair; Nelson, Vice Chair; Angel, Ranking Minority Member; Cox, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Ericksen, Miloscia, Short, Springer, Upthegrove, White and Williams.

Background:

The general legal framework by which Washington's 39 counties must operate is found within the state Constitution. The Constitution includes provisions for county organization, governance, and elected officials, including the establishment of county clerks, sheriffs, and treasurers.

With some exceptions, the specific powers and duties of elected county officials are prescribed in statute. For example, state law obligates superior court clerks, county sheriffs, county treasurers, and county road engineers to keep their offices at their county seats.

Summary of Substitute Bill:

At the discretion of the Board of County Commissioners, the superior court clerk, the sheriff, the county treasurer, and the county road engineer may keep main offices at a location other than the county seat, provided he or she maintains an office at the county seat.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) Benton County has located offices in the Tri-Cities to better serve the large population there. The law should change so the county can be in compliance. People should not have to drive long distances to get county services. This bill would allow counties to provide better and more efficient service to constituents.

(Opposed) None.