SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 75

BYRepresentatives Rayburn, Nealey, Kremen, Prince and Bristow

Changing the designation of the coordinating agency for the association of irrigation districts.

House Committe on Agriculture & Rural Development

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 31, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Hansen, Chairman; Bauer, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Bailey, Barr, Gaspard.

Senate Staff:Tom McDonald (786-7404)

                  March 31, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, MARCH 31, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The directors of irrigation districts may designate a State Association of Washington Irrigation Districts to coordinate common programs for the efficient operation of the districts and the reclamation of land.  Through a voucher procedure, the districts reimburse the Association for costs incurred. The vouchers must set forth the nature of the claim and must be signed by the claimant.

There is concern that under the current law an association must be specifically titled the State Association of Washington Irrigation Districts.  Further, part of the voucher reimbursement procedure is obsolete, and only duplicates requirements already in statute.

SUMMARY:

Irrigation districts may designate a statewide association dedicated to the promotion of irrigated agriculture.  A specific title for the association is not set forth.

A voucher representing the dues and assessments for the association need not be submitted to the county auditor or set forth the nature of the claim and the signature of the claimant.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Jeanne Dickman, Washington State Water Resources Association