SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1413
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:
Natural Resources & Marine Waters, March 17, 2011
Title: An act relating to the expiration date of the invasive species council and account.
Brief Description: Extending the expiration date of the invasive species council and the invasive species council account from December 31, 2011, to June 30, 2017.
Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Chandler, Tharinger and Hinkle; by request of Recreation and Conservation Office.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/28/11, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Marine Waters: 3/10/11, 3/17/11 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & MARINE WATERS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Ranker, Chair; Regala, Vice Chair; Fraser, Hargrove and Swecker.
Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)
Background: Creation and Role of the Invasive Species Council (Council). The Legislature established the Council in 2006. The Council provides policy level direction, planning, and coordination regarding the prevention and control of invasive species issues in Washington. The statutory goals of the Council include serving as a forum for identifying and understanding invasive species, facilitating joint planning and cooperation among relevant entities, educating the public, and providing policy advice to the Legislature.
Membership and Staffing of the Council. Council membership consists of representatives from state and federal agencies, local governments, and other members invited by the Council. The Council is administratively located within the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), and statute directs that the RCO and participating agencies provide staff support to the Council.
Scheduled Expiration of the Council. The legislative authorization for the Council expires December 31, 2011.
Summary of Bill: The Council is authorized to continue operations until June 30, 2017.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
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: The Council was created to address the economic and environmental impacts posed by invasive species. The Council has helped meet the need for coordination on this issue and to help manage the risks. This bill would allow the Council's work to continue through participant contributions and account transfers, removing any state funding from the General Fund. The Council is an example of how interagency coordination can work well. The Nature Conservancy is a participant in the Council, and will provide private sector support for its operations.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Wendy Brown, RCO; Bill Robinson, The Nature Conservancy.