SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6479

BYSenators Bluechel, Lee, Hayner, Newhouse, Nelson, Sellar, Zimmerman and McDonald

Authorizing state agencies to purchase services from the private sector.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1988

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

AS OF FEBRUARY 3, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Washington State Supreme Court ruled in Washington Federation of State Employees v. Spokane Community College, 90 Wn.2d 698 (1978) that where a new need for services which have been customarily and historically provided for by civil servants arises, and where there is no showing that civil servants could not provide those services, a contract for such services is unauthorized.

It has been suggested that greater efficiency and savings may be achieved by authorizing state agencies to purchase services from the private sector.

SUMMARY:

State agencies are authorized to purchase services from the private sector where efficiency, effectiveness and economy in maintenance and operations functions of the state will be enhanced.  The supply management advisory board will arbitrate differences between interested parties regarding expected benefits of the program.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 22, 1988