SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6638

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 February 3, 2016

Title: An act relating to an assessment on cattle.

Brief Description: Concerning an assessment on cattle.

Sponsors: Senator Warnick.

Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development: 2/04/16.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background: The Washington State Beef Commission (Beef Commission) is a nine-member board, eight of whom are appointed by the Director of the Department of Agriculture (Director), with the Director acting as the ninth member. Each commissioner serves a three-year term. It is declared by the Legislature that it is an overriding public interest of the state to support the beef industry.

"Green tags" are assigned to Grade A dairy cattle that are leaving the dairy business and entering the human food chain. Typically, these are day-old dairy calves. The green tag is affixed to the calf's ear. This denotes that the owner or seller has paid a total of $1.50. The cost of the tag itself, an assessment of $0.50 representing funds for a federally ordered national beef promotion and research program, plus $1 representing funds for the state beef commission's activities compose the $1.50 total.

All other Washington cattle sold in-state or out-of-state pay the same federal and state assessments totaling $1.50.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed First Substitute): The $1 assessment that funds the beef commission's activities is raised to $2 for all Washington cattle to be sold in-state or out-of-state, except those identified with a green tag

The beef commission must report to the Legislature by January 1 of each year. The report must account for all funds collected by the $2 per head assessment. This accounting must include the amounts collected, expended, and the purposes for which the funds were used.

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.