HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 2950

As Reported by House Committee On:

Finance

Title:  An act relating to local government finance.

Brief Description:  Addressing the health and safety of Washington state and its residents.

Sponsors:  Representative Gombosky.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Finance:  2/11/02 [DP].

Brief Summary of Bill

$Provides that it is the intent of the Legislature to allow local governments to raise revenues for criminal justice and public health purposes.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE

Majority Report:  Do pass. Signed by 6 members: Representatives Gombosky, Chair; Berkey, Vice Chair; Conway, Morris, Santos and Veloria.

Minority Report:  Do not pass. Signed by 5 members: Representatives Cairnes, Ranking Minority Member; Nixon, Orcutt, Roach and Van Luven.

Staff:  Mark Matteson (786‑7145).

Background:

In recent years, changes to state law and a downturn in the state economy have reduced revenues  available to local jurisdictions.  With respect to revenues, in particular, the passage of Initiative 695 and the discontinuance of backfill funding have restricted the options of local governments in funding criminal justice and public health programs.  A number of jurisdictions have suspended or reduced operations in various programs, and in some cases raised taxes and fees within existing authority in order to maintain service levels.  Various jurisdictions have testified, in spite of these efforts, service levels are eroding.

Summary of  Bill:

Provides that it is the intent of the Legislature to allow local governments to raise revenue in order to better protect the health and safety of Washington and its residents.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.

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

Testimony For:  None.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  None.