SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5746

BYSenator Smitherman

Changing provisions relating to international marketing programs.

Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 23, 1987

Senate Staff:Patrick Woods (786-7430)

AS OF FEBRUARY 20, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The International Marketing Program of Agricultural Commodities and Trade (IMPACT) was established in 1984 to assist in the development of information and strategies to expand the long-term international markets for Washington agricultural products.  The Center for International Trade in Forest Products (CINTRAFOR) was also established in 1984 to assist in developing policies and strategies to expand forest based international trade.

During the 1986 interim, the Legislative Committee on Economic Development conducted a program profile and evaluation study of the state's major economic development programs.  The recommendation of the report included that greater emphasis should be placed on IMPACT and CINTRAFOR on bridging the informational gap between the market research and the ability of businesses to utilize the information.

SUMMARY:

A seven-member advisory board for IMPACT is established.  The members are appointed by the Governor from representatives of agribusiness, the Department of Agriculture and Washington State University.  The board is directed to advise the Center on the most effective manner to conduct its activities and coordinate its programs with the various sectors of the agribusiness industry.

A nine-member advisory board for CINTRAFOR is established.  The members are appointed by the Governor from representatives of the forest products industry, the Department of Trade and Economic Development, the Commissioner of Public Lands and the University of Washington.  The board is directed to advise the Center on the most effective means to conduct its activities and coordinate its programs the various sectors of the forest products industry.

Both Centers are directed to insure that their data and technical services are easily accessible and have a practical application for their respective products industries, and are required to employ three full-time staff whose sole responsibilities are to administer the activities of the programs.

Fiscal Note:      requested