HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

HB 2640

Title: An act relating to changing references to the Washington archaeological research center to the office of archaeology and historic preservation.

Brief Description: Changing references to the Washington archaeological research center to the office of archaeology and historic preservation.

Sponsors: Representatives Ogden, Carlson and Lantz; by request of Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development.

Brief Summary of Bill

CChanges statutory references to the Washington Archaeological Research Center to the Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

HOUSE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, HOUSING & TRADE COMMITTEE

     Staff:  Kenny Pittman (786-7392)

     Background:

The Washington Archaeological Research Center (WARC) was created to advocate for the conservation, preservation, and protection of the state=s historic and cultural resources and assist in the scientific study of these resources.  The WARC works with federal and state agencies, tribal nations, local governments, businesses, and individuals to meet both federal and state responsibilities to cultural resource protection.

The Washington Archaeological Research Center=s services include, but are not limited to:

CMaintaining the Washington State Inventory of Cultural Resources, which includes about 100,000 historic, archaeological and traditional properties;

CReviewing federal actions that might affect historic resources to determine their impact and to develop measures to ensure their protection;

CProviding technical assistance to local governments seeking to establish local preservation programs;

CAdvising property owners of federal and state tax incentives that are available to improve their historic buildings;

CIssuing permits for the excavation of archaeological sites on private and public lands; and

CProviding public education and training on the value and protection of cultural resources through conferences, newsletters, and awards.

The Washington Archaeological Research Center is located within the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development.

     Summary of Bill:

All statutory references to the Washington Archaeological Research Center are changed to the Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

Appropriation:   None.

Fiscal Note:   Not requested.

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