FINAL BILL REPORT
SB 6543
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. |
C 78 L 10
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Modifying the powers of the Washington tree fruit research commission.
Sponsors: Senators Hatfield, Schoesler and Shin.
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources
Background: The Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission (WTFRC) provides funds to Washington State University (WSU) to develop new varieties of apples and cherries. WTFRC has negotiated an agreement with WSU that allows WTFRC to have right of first refusal on intellectual property (IP) that is developed with WTFRC investments in WSU programs.
To utilize this agreement, the WTFRC is seeking legislation to establish a self-supporting 501(c)(3) foundation to communicate the results of trials on new varieties to Washington growers, and to protect the IP of WSU programs. This foundation is anticipated to be an independent entity with its own board of directors.
Summary: The WTFRC is authorized to:
establish a foundation using commission funds for the purposes of this chapter;
enter into contracts or interagency agreements with public or private entities to carry out the purposes of this chapter (personal service contracts must comply with chapter 39.29 RCW);
acquire or own intellectual property rights, licenses, patents and collect royalties resulting from commission-funded research;
engage in appropriate fund-raising activities for supporting activities of the commission for authorized purposes; and
accept and expend or retain any gift, bequest, contribution, or grant from private persons or public agencies to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 48 | 0 | |
House | 96 | 0 |
Effective: | June 10, 2010 |