FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 750

                                  C 216 L 87

BYHouse Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Cole, Patrick and Fisher; by request of Department of Labor and Industries)

Changing provisions relating to farm contractors' security bonds.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Since January of 1986, farm labor contractors have been required to provide a $5,000 surety bond or other approved security to operate as a farm labor contractor.  The director of the Department of Labor and Industries may bring suit against the bond to enforce claims made by workers.  A civil cause of action is also authorized. During the 1986 legislative session, the liability of a farm labor contractor's bond was limited to wage claims.  Any suit against the bond had to be brought independently after establishing adequate proof of liability.

SUMMARY:

The farm labor contractor's bond is made liable for sums legally owing under contract to any agricultural employees.  The bond may not be cancelled during its term without 30 days notice to the Department of Labor and Industries.

Any person having a claim for wages may bring an action on the bond or security deposit.  Claims against the farm labor contractor may be filed against the contractor and the bond or security deposit.  The requirement that the contractor's liability be established in an independent action is deleted.  The department may also bring suit upon the bond on behalf of any worker whose rights have been violated under the farm labor licensing provisions.

If a security deposit in lieu of a bond has been filed with the Department of Labor and Industries, a claimant may proceed against the deposit and is entitled to recover statutory damages.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 94   0

      Senate    46     0

EFFECTIVE:July 26, 1987