Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Local Government & Housing Committee |
HB 2563
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: Authorizing port districts to participate in community-based activities to provide shelter or housing for certain populations.
Sponsors: Representatives Nelson, Chase, White, Cody, Hasegawa, Moeller and Santos.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/18/10
Staff: Ethan Moreno (786-7386).
Background:
Washington's 75 port districts are authorized to operate, develop, and regulate commercial transportation, transfer, storage, and terminal facilities within the district. In furtherance of their operations, port districts are granted numerous statutory powers, including the authority to levy property taxes, and powers pertaining to industrial improvement, community revitalization, and economic development.
Although the Washington Constitution generally prohibits the gifting of public funds, property, or credit, to individuals, associations and corporations, the Constitution authorizes counties, cities, towns and other municipal corporations to provide public resources for the necessary support of the poor and infirm.
Summary of Bill:
Port districts are authorized to provide funding, property, and other port resources to assist local governmental or nonprofit entities in the development and maintenance of shelter or housing for homeless or low-income persons.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.