HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                  HB 1420

Title:An act relating to criminal history record checks of prospective appointees and employees of the state investment board.

Brief Description:  Providing a procedure for the state investment board to check the criminal history of prospective appointees and employees.

Sponsors:  Representatives H. Sommers, Huff, Benson, Hatfield, McIntire and Wolfe; by request of State Investment Board.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS & INSURANCE

Meeting Date: February 2, 1999

Bill Analysis Prepared by: Charlie Gavigan  (786-7340)

Background:  The Legislature created the Washington State Investment Board in 1981 to administer public trust and retirement funds.  There are 14 members that serve on the board: one active member of the Public Employees Retirement System, one active member of the Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Retirement System, one active member of the Teachers Retirement System, the State Treasurer, a member of the state House of Representatives, a member of the state Senate, a representative of retired state employees, the director of the Department of Labor and Industries, the director of the Department of Retirement Systems, and five nonvoting members appointed by the State Investment Board with experience in making investments.

Washington law requires that the State Investment Board (SIB) establish investment policies and procedures that are designed to maximize return at a prudent level of risk.  The State Investment Board manages 27 funds which total approximately $49 billion.

Like other state agencies, the SIB can request a background check from the Washington State Patrol on applicants for certain employment positions.

Summary of Bill:  State Investment Board may require criminal history record checks through the Washington State Patrol and the FBI for candidates of certain positions of authority.  The use of this information is limited and is exempt from public disclosure.

  Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Rulemaking Authority:  Not addressed.