HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 1853
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 Passed House:
February 27, 2017
Title: An act relating to removing references to specific nonoperational historical facilities from state statute.
Brief Description: Removing references to specific nonoperational historical facilities from state statute.
Sponsors: Representatives Doglio, Hudgins, Wilcox and Haler; by request of Washington State Historical Society.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
State Government, Elections & Information Technology: 2/14/17, 2/15/17 [DP].
Floor Activity:
Passed House: 2/27/17, 96-0.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT, ELECTIONS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY |
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 9 members: Representatives Hudgins, Chair; Dolan, Vice Chair; Koster, Ranking Minority Member; Volz, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Appleton, Gregerson, Irwin, Kraft and Pellicciotti.
Staff: Megan Palchak (786-7105).
Background:
Washington has multiple historical societies, whose duties include operating state museums and encouraging cultural, historical studies, and interpretive efforts. The State Capitol Historical Museum was designated as part of the state capitol grounds in 1939. The same grounds had been referred to as the Block 2 Grainger's Addition to the City of Olympia.
In 1990 the Washington State Historical Society joined a consortium with the Center for Columbia River History, Portland State University, and Washington State University, which conducts interdisciplinary research projects and sponsors free public programs.
Summary of Bill:
The building and grounds designated as Block 2, Grainger's Addition to the City of Olympia, as part of the Washington State Capitol, are renamed the Historic Lord Mansion.
The Washington State Historical Society no longer must partner with the Washington State University and other agencies to manage the Center for Columbia River History, headquartered on the Vancouver National History Reserve, or with the Department for Preservation and Rehabilitation.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) This agency requested legislation from the Washington State Historical Society removes obsolete language from the law. The Center for Columbia River History was dissolved due to lack of funding and interest; work of the center is maintained in the archives. The State Capitol Museum closed in 2014 for renovations. Subsequently, the location was found to no longer be viable as a museum. The Historic Lord Mansion is primarily recognized for its architecture.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: Jennifer Kilmer, Washington State Historical Society.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.