SENATE BILL REPORT

SCR 8406

As Passed Senate, February 12, 2002

Brief Description:  Encouraging legislator trade mission participation.

Sponsors:  Senators Shin, Rasmussen, Franklin, Roach, Prentice, McAuliffe, Regala, Fraser, Jacobsen and Gardner.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Agriculture & International Trade:  1/31/01, 2/7/01 [DP]; 1/25/02 [DP].

Passed Senate:  3/7/01, 48-0; 2/12/02, 44-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

  Signed by Senators Rasmussen, Chair; Shin, Vice Chair; Parlette, Sheahan, Snyder and Swecker.

Staff:  Bob Lee (786‑7404)

Background:  Trade missions are an effective way of forging links that can expand trade opportunities for Washington businesses.  Trade missions have usually been a joint effort between an executive branch agency and legislators and other elected officials.  Procedures, methods, and protocols need to be developed to avoid confusion of roles and to generally maximize the effectiveness of trade missions.

Summary of Bill:  It is resolved that certain protocols for legislative participation in executive agency trade missions be established.  Missions must be initiated and organized by the executive branch agency, which includes the office of the Governor.  Procedures for providing timely notice to legislators, and developing objectives and itinerary are provided.  Criteria for legislative participation are stated.  It is resolved that the designated legislative leader will work closely with agency staff to ensure an understanding of responsibilities.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Testimony For:  Trade missions pay returns greater than any other investment.  In order to promote trade, appreciate the world situation, and increase trade opportunities, government officials must travel.  Trade missions give an understanding of competition, social settings, and current happenings in the market.  The goals and purposes of a mission should be clearly established at the outset.  This resolution will lead to a more thoughtful method of legislator participation.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  PRO:  Sharon Ellsworth, Office of Trade and Economic Development; Bill Stafford, Trade Development Alliance of Greater Seattle; Pat Jones, Washington Public Ports Association; Jim Zimmerman, Troutlodge, Washington Fish Growers Association.