FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1552

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.

C 336 L 09

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Regarding public comment at rule-making meetings. (REVISED FOR PASSED LEGISLATURE: Regarding public comment at rule-making hearings. )

Sponsors: House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Kretz, Blake, Short, Nelson, Smith, Upthegrove and McCune).

House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs

Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections

Background:

A rule or regulation is a written policy or procedure by a state agency that is generally applicable to a group of people, industries, activities, or circumstances. Rules are adopted by an agency through a process mandated by the Washington Administrative Procedures Act (APA). The APA sets out exactly what steps an agency must follow to adopt rules. When an agency believes it has developed a final rule proposal, it publishes a notice of proposed rule-making and schedules a public hearing. At the public hearing, interested parties can make comments about the proposal. Written comments can also be submitted.

Summary:

During a rule-making hearing, all interested parties must have the opportunity to comment individually. All comments by all persons must be done orally in the presence and hearing of all other hearing attendees. Written or electronic submission may be accepted and included in the record.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

95

0

Senate

45

0

(Senate amended)

House

97

0

(House concurred)

Effective:

July 26, 2009