SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 2071

BYHouse Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives R. King, Nelson and Spanel)

Licensing commercial divers and dive tenders and providing health and safety standards for commercial activities on navigable waters.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 27, 1989; March 31, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended and be referred to Committee on Ways & Means.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Bauer, Kreidler, Owen, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Ross Antipa (786-7413)

                  March 31, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, MARCH 31, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Commercial divers are not currently licensed by the state.

Some people believe that the incidents of diving accidents would be decreased by requiring divers to pass a commercial diver's examination.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Labor and Industries is authorized to require a commercial diver to obtain a certificate issued by the department before commencing any commercial diving activity.  The department will evaluate applicant's background and experience prior to testing them for certification.  The department will make available a study guide to divers who intend to take the certification test.  Unspecified fees shall be charged divers for the issuing and renewing of certificates.

Appropriation:    $264,165

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      available

Effective Date:The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT: 

The scope of the bill is limited to vessels involving commercial diving which are not inspected by the Coast Guard.

Senate Committee - Testified: Peter Schmidt, Department of Labor and Industries (pro); Steve Arbaugh, commercial fisherman (con)