SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6601

BYSenators Bailey, Vognild, von Reichbauer, Madsen, Bender, Bauer, Metcalf, Hansen, Warnke, Matson, Bluechel, Conner and Saling

Establishing an equine research and education program at Washington State University.

Senate Committee on Agriculture

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 29, 1990

Majority Report:     That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6601 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass and be referred to Committee on Ways & Means.

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

Senate Staff:Bob Lee (786-7404)

                January 26, 1990

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 6, 1990

Senate Staff:Linda Brownell (786-7913)

                February 2, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, JANUARY 25, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The horse industry is a major industry in the state.  There are several sectors in the industry including the use of horses for recreational purposes, the raising of horses, and horse racing.

Additional funding is sought to provide college level training for people to be employed in the horse industry.

SUMMARY:

An equine research and education program is established at Washington State University.  The program will be jointly conducted by the Department of Animal Services and the College of Veterinary Medicine.  The objectives of the program are to:  (1) provide an integrated educational approach to horse production, management and health for undergraduates and graduate students; and (2) conduct research in reproduction, nutrition, exercise physiology, animal sports medicine, virology and immunology of horses.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

A broader range of sectors within the horse industry is explicitly recognized.  Updated numbers of horses in the state and their contribution to the state economy are included.

The level of appropriation is increased from $500,000 per year to $633,000 per year.

Appropriation:  $633,000 is appropriated to Washington State University for the upcoming fiscal year for the program.

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    none requested

Senate Committee - Testified:   AGRICULTURE:  Crish Lydon, EquiFriends for Handicapped (pro); Ralph Vacca, Washington Thoroughbred Breeders (pro); Jerry Prigge, Washington State Horsemen (pro); Dr. Gary Duskin, Washington State Veterinary Medical Assoc. (pro)