SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6549

BYSenators Smith, Sutherland and Bauer

Changing the term "salary" to "compensation" for public utility district employees.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 29, 1990

Majority Report:     Do pass.

     Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Thorsness, Vice Chairman; Patrick, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Stephen Nelsen (786-7464)

                February 10, 1990

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 9, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The "salary" of a public utility district manager is fixed by a public utility district commission.  The State Auditor defines salary very strictly and has issued notice that PUD commissions only have the authority to grant a salary to their managers.  Some PUDs would like the flexibility to provide their managers and employees a contemporary compensation package which might include items such as auto allowances, residential allowances and other benefits in addition to salary.

SUMMARY:

The term "compensation" is substituted for the term "salary" in public utility district law regarding the salaries of managers and employees.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    none requested

Senate Committee - Testified:   J. Boldt, Clark PUD