Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Ways & Means Committee

SSB 6172

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: Suspending the powers and duties of the oil spill advisory council for the 2009-2011 biennium.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Senators Rockefeller and Ranker).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

  • Suspends the powers and duties of the Oil Spill Advisory Council for the 2009-11 biennium.

Hearing Date: 4/25/09

Staff: Owen Rowe (786-7391)

Background:

In 2005 the Oil Spill Advisory Council (Council) was created in the Office of the Governor to aid in the prevention of oil spills by working with communities, governments, and industry. The Council also serves as an advisory body on, and provides for stakeholder and public consideration of, matters relating to international, national, and regional oil spill issues.

The Council is composed of 16 members appointed by the Governor, plus two invited tribal representatives. Members are appointed representing the following interests: environmental communities, commercial shellfish industries, other commercial fisheries, marine recreation, tourism, county governments, marine trade, marine labor, major oil facilities, public ports, and individuals who reside on a shoreline. Appointments to the council must reflect a geographical balance and the diversity of populations within the areas potentially affected by oil spills in state waters. All members serve a four-year term.

Summary of Bill:

The activities of the Council are suspended for the 2009-11 biennium.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on June 30, 2009.