SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1419

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 & Parks, March 26, 2013

Title: An act relating to the Washington state horse park authority.

Brief Description: Expanding membership of the Washington state horse park authority.

Sponsors: Representatives Warnick and Manweller.

Brief History: Passed House: 3/06/13, 95-0.

Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Parks: 3/14/13, 3/26/13 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Pearson, Chair; Smith, Vice Chair; Rolfes, Ranking Member; Hargrove, Hewitt, Kline and Parlette.

Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)

Background: The Legislature authorized the establishment of the Washington State Horse Park Authority (Authority) in 1995. The Authority is a nonprofit corporation responsible for developing, promoting, operating, managing, and maintaining the Washington State Horse Park located on a 112-acre site in Cle Elum. The Authority is a public-private partnership governed by a seven-member volunteer board of directors appointed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) comprised of the following:

Summary of Bill: The board of directors of the Authority is expanded from seven to 11 members and initial term lengths for the new members are prescribed. All four new members represent the geographic and sports discipline diversity of equestrian interests. The number of board members having business experience relevant to the organization of horse shows or operation of a horse show facility is increased from one to three.

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: The Washington Horse Park is important to the state. They are successfully building their operation and continue to be an economic provider to Washington State.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Warnick, prime sponsor.