SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5344

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 10, 2011

Title: An act relating to an assessment of the department of transportation's management, accountability, and performance system.

Brief Description: Concerning an assessment of the department of transportation's management, accountability, and performance system.

Sponsors: Senators Kastama, Chase, Sheldon, Hobbs, Conway, Keiser and Shin.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/31/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: The Washington State Quality Award (WSQA) was established in 1994 by Senate Bill 6220 and is awarded to organizations that have implemented and achieved "exceptional quality performance." The WSQA program office receives applications for the WSQA from organizations who seek feedback and recognition for the efforts they have made in achieving performance excellence.

Legislation passed in 2005 required all state agencies to apply to the WSQA, or a similar organization, for an assessment of the agencies quality management, accountability, and performance system. The purpose of the assessment was to recognize best practices and identify opportunities for improvements in various areas of management, planning, and process. The requirement for agencies to apply to the WSQA was set to start in 2008, and was then required at least once every three years. The start date was delayed in the 2009 operating budget to 2012. The start date was then accelerated to 2010 in the 2010 supplemental operating budget, but this change was vetoed by the Governor, and the current date agencies will be required to apply to the WSQA remains at 2012.

Summary of Bill: Beginning in 2012 and at least once every three years thereafter, the Department of Transportation (DOT) must apply for an agency-wide performance review through the WSQA or a similar organization. The review must evaluate a wide range of areas, including leadership, strategic planning, customer focus and process improvement.

One million of the DOT 2011-13 appropriation for its Management and Support program is held in unallotted status by the Office of Financial Management until the performance review is completed.

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: This is a proposal to systemically evaluate DOT and provide methodical feedback to DOT. Agency problems are typically systematic and need to be addressed from a systematic approach, which the WSQAs provide.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Kastama, prime sponsor.