HB 1608-S - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/08/05)

Declares that it is in the public interest that support for the potato industry be clearly expressed, that adequate protection be given to the industry, and that the industry's collective activities and operations include: (1) Enhancing the reputation and image of Washington state's potatoes and potato producers;

(2) Working to eliminate or limit impediments affecting the sale and use of Washington state's potatoes in local, domestic, and foreign markets;

(3) Protecting the public by educating the public in reference to the quality, care, and methods used in the production of Washington state's potatoes;

(4) Increasing the public knowledge of nutritional value, health-giving qualities, and dietetic value of Washington state's potatoes and products; and

(5) Supporting and engaging in programs or activities that benefit the planting, production, harvesting, handling, processing, transportation, trade, and use of potatoes produced in Washington state.

Declares that it is a misdemeanor for: (1) Any person willfully to violate any provision of this act;

(2) Any person willfully to render or furnish a false or fraudulent report, statement of record required by the commission under this act, or any rule of the commission or rule of the department adopted under this act, or willfully to fail or refuse to furnish or render any such report, statement, or record so required.

Declares that the potato commission established in chapter 16-516 WAC is hereby abolished and its powers, duties, and functions are hereby transferred to the potato commission created in this act.