SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8016

BYSenator Bailey

Requesting federal funds for asbestos removal.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 27, 1989; March 1, 1989

Majority Report:     Do pass.

     Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Lee, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Craswell, Fleming, Gaspard, Metcalf, Murray, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Susan Finkel (786-7483)

                March 2, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION, MARCH 1, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The national Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 requires that each state submit a plan on the status of management and/or plan for removal of asbestos in each school building not later than December 31, 1988.  The cost of inspection and writing of plans has cost $.05 per square foot or $5 million so far.  There are $47 million set aside for the asbestos problem nationally.  Washington State has submitted 11 grants which request a total of $1 million.

The funds available for plans for removal or management of asbestos as well as for performing the work itself are greatly below the actual costs.

SUMMARY:

This Joint Memorial Resolution acknowledges the shared concern about the hazards of asbestos in our schools, and requests that the federal government provide some resources necessary to help school districts comply with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    none requested

Senate Committee - Testified:   Dwayne Slate, Washington State School Directors' Association (pro)