Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Local Government & Housing Committee

HB 2775

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 membership on the state building code council.

Sponsors: Representatives Dammeier, Hasegawa, Hunt, Armstrong, Short, Kristiansen, Springer, Kelley, Morrell, Pearson, Chase and Kretz.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires Senate confirmation of gubernatorial appointees to the State Building Code Council.

  • Requires that, in order to remain on the State Building Code Council, members representing private sector industries must maintain employment within the specific industry they represent.

Hearing Date: 1/21/10

Staff: Becca Kenna-Schenk (786-7291).

Background:

The State Building Code Council (Council) is responsible for the adoption and maintenance of the various building, residential, fire, and other model codes that comprise the state building code (SBC).

The Council is comprised of 15 members, who are appointed by the Governor. At least six of the 15 Council members must reside east of the Cascade Mountains.

In addition, the Council must consist of:

The Council also includes the following ex officio, nonvoting members:

Before making any appointment to the Council, the Governor must seek nominations from recognized organizations with an interest in the building construction trade or industry. Members serve three-year terms on the Council.

Summary of Bill:

Gubernatorial appointments to the Council are subject to Senate confirmation. If a Council member is not confirmed by the Senate by the end of the regular session following the appointment, the appointee’s position is considered vacant.

Any Council member appointed to represent a specific private sector industry must maintain similar employment throughout his or her term on the Council. If a Council member enters into new employment outside of the industry he or she was appointed to represent, he or she must be removed from the Council. If the member remains on the Council, any vote taken 30 days after the start of the new employment is null and void. Retirement or unemployment may not be cause for termination from the Council.

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.