Brief Description: Modifying the appointment process for the joint legislative oversight committee on trade policy.

Sponsors: Representatives Veloria and Chase.

Hearing Date: 2/3/04

Staff: Tracey Taylor (786-7196).

Background:

In 2003, the Legislature approved Substitute House Bill 1059 which created the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Trade Policy. The Committee membership is composed of two members from the two major caucuses in each house of the Legislature as well as 3 ex-officio members. The ex-officio members include a representative from the Washington State Department of Agriculture, the state trade representative and a representative from the Office of the Attorney General. The members of the Senate are appointed by the President of the Senate and the members of the House are appointed by the Speaker of the House. The Senate President and the Speaker of the House also appoint the ex-officio members.

The Governor vetoed the sentence regarding the appointment of ex-officio members. In his veto letter, he indicated the ex-officio members were members of the executive branch; therefore, the ex-officio members should be appointed by the executive branch. His veto was later withdrawn.

Summary of Bill:

The Governor, not the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, will appoint the ex-officio members of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Trade Policy.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on April 1, 2004.