SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6633

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:

Energy, Environment & Telecommunications, February 4, 2016

Title: An act relating to the marine resources advisory council.

Brief Description: Concerning the marine resources advisory council.

Sponsors: Senators Ranker and Ericksen.

Committee Activity: Energy, Environment & Telecommunications: 2/04/16, 2/04/16 [DP, w/oRec].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Ericksen, Chair; Sheldon, Vice Chair; McCoy, Ranking Minority Member; Braun, Brown, Cleveland, Habib and Ranker.

Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.

Signed by Senator Honeyford.

Staff: Jan Odano (786-7486)

Background: In 2013, the Legislature created the Washington Marine Resources Advisory Council (MRAC) within the Office of the Governor. The purpose of MRAC is to maintain a sustainable, coordinated focus to address impacts of ocean acidification and to advise and work with the University of Washington and others conducting technical analysis on the effects and sources of ocean acidification.

MRAC membership includes legislators, the Governor or the Governor's designee and elected officials, representatives from tribes, commercial and recreational fishing, shellfish growers, state agencies, marine recreation and businesses, and others from the private sector. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and academic institutions conducting research on ocean acidification were asked to participate as non-voting members by invitation from the Governor.

MRAC is required to meet at least twice per year and provide opportunity for public comment. It may provide recommendations to the Legislature and any recommendation must identify a range of actions necessary for implementation and consider the differences between instate and out-of-state impacts and sources. In addition, MRAC may seek public and private funding resources for ongoing technical analysis to support its recommendations.

MRAC expires June 30, 2017.

Summary of Bill: MRAC is extended to June 30, 2022.

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: Ocean acidification is having incredible impacts on shellfish growers. The work of the council isn't finished yet. This would give them the opportunity to complete their work.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Sen. Ranker, prime sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.