SENATE BILL REPORT

SSB 6404

BYSenate Committee on Governmental Operations (originally sponsored by Senators Lee, Halsan, Bailey and Garrett; by request of Department of Community Development)

Authorizing loans for emergency public works projects.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 1, 1988

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6404 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Zimmerman, Vice Chairman; DeJarnatt, Garrett, Metcalf, Pullen.

Senate Staff:Desley Brooks (786-7443); Barbara Howard (786-7410)

                  February 15, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 12, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Public Works Assistance Account loans are made once each year, during the legislative session, with the approval of the Legislature.  Because emergencies do not occur on any schedule, there is a need to set aside a portion of the Public Works Assistance Account to loan to affected communities that can be used in case of an imminent threat or a crisis, for repairs to eligible public works. 

SUMMARY:

A set-aside within the Public Works Assistance Account is allowed for emergencies.  The amount appropriated from the account for emergency purposes, cannot exceed 5 percent of the total amount appropriated in any biennium.  The loans should, to the extent that it is practicable and feasible, be competitively bid.  The funds may be expended without waiting for legislative approval.  The Public Works Board will submit an annual report to the Legislature, with a description of emergency loans made during the preceding fiscal year.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Pete Butkus, DCD; Duke Schaub, AGC; Jim Justin, Association of Washington Cities