SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2748
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. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Elections, February 18, 2010
Title: An act relating to dues for an association established under RCW 53.06.030
Brief Description: Concerning dues paid to the Washington public ports association by port districts.
Sponsors: Representatives Simpson, Jacks and Chase.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/11/10, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/18/10 [DP, w/oRec].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Oemig, Vice Chair; McDermott and Pridemore.
Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.
Signed by Senator Roach, Ranking Minority Member.
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
Background: Port districts are authorized to acquire, build, maintain, operate, develop, and regulate the commercial transportation, transfer, storage, handling, and terminal facilities and industrial improvements within the district. Port districts may levy property taxes and issue revenue bonds in order to finance port operations, capital projects, and other development interests.
In 1961 the Legislature established the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) to serve as the coordinating agency for all districts in the state.
Membership to the WPPA is voluntary. Currently, 68 of 75 public port districts in the state are members of the WPAA. Port districts that are members, are statutorily authorized to pay membership dues. Membership dues are established under the WPAA bylaws. Current statute provides that annual dues cannot exceed a sum equal to the amount which would be raised by a levy of $.01 per $1,000 of assessed value against the taxable property within the district.
Summary of Bill: Removes the statutory limit on the amount of annual membership dues paid to the Washington Public Ports Association.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill removes a small quirk in state law. The bill will only impact one port in the state, which is the Port of Kalama. The current statutory limit on dues for the ports association prevents the Port of Kalama from paying their fair share. This is a good bill that the ports fully support.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Eric Johnson, WPPA; Lanny Cawley, Port of Kalama.