Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government, Elections & Information Technology Committee

HB 1786

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.

Brief Description: Increasing membership of the state interoperability executive committee in order to foster interoperability.

Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Kraft, Doglio, Hudgins and Ormsby; by request of Office of the Chief Information Officer.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Expands the Interoperability Executive Committee membership.

  • Clarifies standards and types of wireless radio communication equipment for state purchase.

Hearing Date: 2/14/17

Staff: Megan Palchak (786-7105).

Background:

The Interoperability Executive Committee (IEC) develops policies and recommendations regarding state wireless radio communication technology standards for the Consolidated Technology Services Agency. Standards must address interoperability of existing and future systems and technologies. The EIC is also the point of contact for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and first responders network. It coordinates purchasing of all state wireless radio communications system equipment; fosters cooperation among public safety and emergency response systems; works with wireless communications groups and associations to ensure interoperability; and performs other duties as necessary.

"Project 25" is not defined under state law, but is referred to under statutes regarding standards for equipment purchases under authority of the IEC.

Summary of Bill:

Tribal Nations, the Departments of Fish and Wildlife, Health, Corrections, and 911 call centers are added to the Interoperability Executive Committee. Committee membership is expanded from 15 to 22 members.

With respect to the coordination of equipment purchases, the types of systems that must be project 25 or project 25 capable are clarified. The requirement for any new system to be, at minimum, capable of upgrading to project 25 is removed.

For the purposes of the IEC, the definition of public safety includes reference to any entity or service that ensures the welfare and protection of the public.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.