SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1645
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 March 14, 2013
Title: An act relating to the Washington higher education facilities authority.
Brief Description: Increasing the number of public members on the Washington higher education facilities authority.
Sponsors: Representatives Riccelli, Sells, Ryu and Moscoso; by request of Washington State Higher Education Facilities Authority.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/04/13, 96-2.
Committee Activity: Higher Education: 3/14/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION |
Staff: Katherine Taylor (786-7434)
Background: The Washington Higher Education Facilities Authority (Facilities Authority) was created in 1983 to allow Washington's nonprofit, independent colleges to build, improve, and outfit higher education facilities through tax-exempt financing. The Facilities Authority issues tax-exempt, nonrecourse revenue bonds for the independent qualified institutions of higher education in Washington. The eligible colleges within the Facilities Authority include Bastyr University, Cornish College of the Arts, Gonzaga University, Heritage University, Northwest Indian College, Pacific Lutheran University, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Seattle Pacific University, Seattle University, University of Puget Sound, Walla Walla University, Whitman College, and Whitworth University.
Currently, the Facilities Authority consists of six members: the Governor; Lieutenant Governor; and four public members, one of whom must be the president of a higher education institution at the time of appointment. The public members must be residents of the state, appointed by the Governor, and subject to confirmation by the Senate. The public members serve staggered, four-year terms. The Governor serves as the chairperson of the Facilities Authority.
Summary of Bill: One public member is added to the Facilities Authority, increasing the total membership from six members to seven members.
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: Our primary priority is to have seven members to achieve a quorum and deal with tie breakers. We are comfortable with both versions of the bill.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Paul Edwards, WA Higher Education Facilities Authority.