SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6183
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 January 24, 2012
Title: An act relating to bid requirements for schools purchasing Washington grown foods and other goods.
Brief Description: Regarding bid requirements for schools purchasing Washington grown foods and other goods.
Sponsors: Senators Morton, Schoesler, Ericksen and Roach.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development: 1/23/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)
Background: The 2002 Federal farm bill created a pilot Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to provide free, fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to students. Participating schools use federal funds to purchase their choice of snacks. Congress expanded the program in 2004.School districts have bidding thresholds for both public works and purchases, excepting for books. The district's in-house shop or repair department may perform improvements or repairs that do not exceed the expected cost of $40,000. Public notice and bidding are required for public works and purchases exceeding an estimated cost of $50,000. Furniture, equipment and supplies must be procured on a competitive basis by means of telephone quotations when the estimated cost exceeds $40,000. From $40,000 to $45,000 at least three telephone quotations must be obtained. Public notice and bidding are required for purchases over $75,000.
Farm-to-School programs encouraging consumption of fresh, locally-grown food at public schools and other institutions have been enacted or proposed in several states. Washington's Farm-to-School program of 2008 provides that the public notice and bidding requirements do not apply to the procurement of Washington-grown food. Washington-grown food is that which is grown and packed or processed in Washington State.
Summary of Bill: A farmer having a contract or order with a school district may supplement that contract or order with food grown outside the state so long as the supplement does not exceed 25 percent of the annual total value of the contract or order.
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 will be helpful and there are no known objections. It will allow school districts more flexibility.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Morton, prime sponsor; Mitch Denning, Alliance of Education Associations.