Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 1425
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. |
Brief Description: Removing the requirement that housing organizations apply to the Washington state quality award program.
Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Springer, Ryu, Haler, Manweller, McCoy, Maxwell, Lytton, Kagi and Takko.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/7/13
Staff: Sean Flynn (786-7124).
Background:
The Transitional Housing Operating and Rent Program (THOR) is created within the Department of Commerce (Department) to assist individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The Department awards grants to eligible organizations to provide rental assistance and case management support for program participants and funds for the operating expenses of transitional housing facilities. Eligible organizations include local governments and housing authorities, tribes, and non-profit organizations.
Beginning in 2011, each eligible organization receiving over $500,000 a year from the THOR, other state housing programs, or local recording fee surcharges, must apply to the Washington State Quality Award (WSQA) program once every three years for an assessment of the organization's quality management, accountability and performance systems. Cities and counties are exempt from this requirement until 2018.
Washington State Quality Award Program.
The WSQA is presented by the Governor to organizations that have implemented and achieved exceptional quality performance. The WSQA program is administered by a council operating as a private non-profit corporation. The program receives applications from organizations seeking feedback and recognition for significant performance efforts. The program evaluates and scores the applicant and decides whether to award the WSQA to the organization. Beginning in 2012, each executive agency must apply for the WSQA once every three years.
Summary of Bill:
The requirement for eligible organizations receiving over $500,000 a year from the THOR, other state housing programs, or local recording fee surcharges, to apply for the WSQA once every three years is eliminated.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.