HB 2570-S.E - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Includes in the crimes of theft in the first degree and theft in the second degree, metal wire taken from a public service company or a consumer-owned utility when the costs of the damage to the company's or utility's property exceed five thousand dollars in value.

 
VETO MESSAGE ON ESHB 2570

March 30, 2012

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,
The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 1, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2570 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to metal property theft."

Section 1 creates a twenty-four member task force to study the issue of metal theft and make recommendations to the Legislature. As I have stated many times, I do not support the statutory creation of new boards, commissions, work groups, or task forces. I believe this task force can be assembled independently, by the interested parties, without the need for a statute. In the alternative, the Legislative Committee(s) with jurisdiction can make the issue part of its interim work plan.

For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 1 of Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2570.

With the exception of Section 1, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2570 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Christine Gregoire
Governor