Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Technology, Energy & Communications Committee |
HB 2661
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 Washington State University extension energy program's plant operations support program.
Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins, Hunt, Kenney and Morrell; by request of Department of General Administration and WSU Extension Energy Program.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/20/10
Staff: Kara Durbin (786-7133).
Background:
In 1997, the Plant Operations Support (POS) program was formally established and housed at the Department of General Administration (GA). The purpose of the POS program is to provide information, technical assistance, and consultation on physical plant operation and maintenance issues to state and local governments. The POS program is funded by voluntary subscription charges and service fees.
In September of 2007, the POS program co-located with the Washington State University Extension Energy Program (WSU Energy Program). In July of 2009, the GA and the WSU Energy Program entered into an interagency agreement, which resulted in the GA no longer offering its POS services on a subscription basis pursuant to RCW 43.82.160 and the WSU Energy Program establishing its own subscription-based support program under the name POS Consortium.
Summary of Bill:
The statute establishing the Plant Operations Support (POS) program within the Department of General Administration is repealed.
The POS program is created at the Washington State University Extension Energy Program. The POS program must provide information, technical assistance, and consultation on physical plant operation, maintenance, and public works issues to state and local governments, tribal governments, and non-profit organizations. The POS program must be supported by voluntary subscription charges and service fees.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.