SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1886

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:

Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development, March 21, 2013

Title: An act relating to the recoverable costs of the department of agriculture under chapter 16.36 RCW

Brief Description: Concerning the recoverable costs of the department of agriculture under chapter 16.36 RCW.

Sponsors: House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Chandler and Haigh).

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Hatfield, Chair; Honeyford, Ranking Member; Brown, Eide, Hobbs, Schoesler and Shin.

Background: The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is permitted to collect money to recover the reasonable costs of purchasing, printing, and distributing official individual identification devices or methods, regulatory forms, and other supplies as it pertains to the inspection, transport, and health of animals.

The funds recovered must be deposited in the Animal Disease Traceability Account in the Agricultural Local Fund, and may be used to carry out animal disease traceability activities for cattle and to compensate data and fee collection costs.

Summary of Bill: WSDA is permitted to recover costs for data entry and processing related to animal health documents that facilitate disease control and traceability.

These funds are deposited in the Animal Disease Traceability Account in the Agricultural Local Fund.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This gives authority for WSDA to recover the cost of entering animal disease traceability data such as certificates of veterinary inspection. The goal is to provide an incentive for the livestock industry to submit data electronically rather than submitting paper forms which are costly for WSDA to input.