SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6097
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 of February 25, 2009
Title: An act relating to exempting the agricultural commodity commissions from certain administrative cost reductions.
Brief Description: Exempting the agricultural commodity commissions from certain administrative cost reductions.
Sponsors: Senator Hatfield.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Ways & Means: 2/26/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS |
Staff: Steve Jones (786-7440)
Background: Legislation was enacted during the 2008 legislative session to reduce the administrative costs of state government during the 2007-09 fiscal biennium. Under that legislation, for the remainder of the biennium, state agencies are prohibited from signing new contracts for personal services not related to an emergency or not funded from private or federal grants. State agencies are also prohibited from acquiring items of equipment exceeding $5,000 not relating to an emergency and are prohibited from making expenditures for state employee out-of-state travel or training not related to an emergency or direct service delivery. Exceptions to the prohibitions relating to contracts, equipment, travel, and training may be granted for executive branch agencies by the Director of Financial Management after five days notice to the legislative fiscal committees.
Commodity commissions are state agencies created or authorized by statute to promote agricultural commodities through research, marketing, and educational efforts. Commodity commissions are funded through assessments on commodity producers.
Summary of Bill: The following Washington commodity commissions are exempt from the restrictions on 2007-09 expenditures for personal service contracts, equipment, out-of-state travel, and training: Apple Commission, Tree Fruit Research Commission, Fruit Commission, Dairy Products Commission, Wine Commission, Beer Commission, Beef Commission, Grain Commission, and other agricultural commodity boards and commissions authorized under chapters 15.65 and 15.66 RCW.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.