 | WASHINGTON STATE LEGISLATURE | |
| Legislative Digest No. 11 | ||
| FIFTY-NINTH LEGISLATURE | ||
| Tuesday, January 24, 2006 | 16th Day - 2006 Regular Session | |
| SENATE |
|
This publication includes digest and history for bills, joint memorials, joint resolutions, concurrent resolutions, initiatives, and substitutes. Engrossed measures may be republished if the amendment makes a substantive change.
Electronic versions of Legislative Digests are available at http://www.leg.wa.gov/wsladm/billinfo1/digsup.cfm?year=2006.
HB 1384-S2
by House Committee on Technology, Energy & Communications (originally sponsored by Representatives Haler, B. Sullivan, Morris, Crouse, P. Sullivan, Chase, and Hudgins)
Authorizing the construction and operation of renewable energy projects by joint operating agencies.
Authorizes the construction and operation of renewable energy projects by joint operating agencies.
| Jan 19 | TEC - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 2002-S
by House Committee on Children & Family Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Dickerson, Roberts, Kagi, Kenney, and Santos)
Authorizing limited continuing foster care and support services up to age twenty-one.
Provides that, beginning in 2006, the department shall have the authority to allow up to fifty youth reaching age eighteen to continue in foster care or group care as needed to participate in or complete a posthigh school academic or vocational program, and to receive necessary support and transition services.Provides that, in 2007 and 2008, the department has the authority to allow up to fifty additional youth per year reaching age eighteen to remain in foster care or group care as provided in this act.Declares that a youth who remains eligible for such placement and services pursuant to department rules may continue in foster care or group care until the youth reaches his or her twenty-first birthday.Provides that, beginning in July 2008, the Washington state institute for public policy shall conduct a study measuring the outcomes for foster youth who have received continued support pursuant to RCW 74.13.031(10). The study should include measurements of any savings to the state and local government. The institute shall issue a report containing its preliminary findings to the legislature by December 1, 2008, and a final report by December 1, 2009.
| Jan 19 | CFS - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
HB 2393-S2
by House Committee on Capital Budget (originally sponsored by Representatives Dunshee, Jarrett, Ormsby, Cox, Ericks, Newhouse, Kilmer, Chase, McCoy, Morrell, Moeller, Conway, P. Sullivan, Walsh, Springer, Buri, Haler, Wallace, Grant, Dickerson, Morris, B. Sullivan, Simpson, Upthegrove, Sells, and Green)
Establishing an energy freedom program.
Provides funding for energy freedom projects.
| Jan 19 | CB - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Jan 23 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 2394-S
by House Committee on Children & Family Services (originally sponsored by Representatives Dickerson, Morrell, Appleton, Moeller, Lantz, Hasegawa, Williams, Darneille, Santos, Haler, Wallace, Walsh, McIntire, and Simpson)
Including financial literacy in work activity provisions.
Finds that for a variety of reasons, many citizens may lack the basic financial knowledge necessary to spend their money wisely, save for the future, and manage money challenges, such as a job loss, financing a college education, or a catastrophic injury.Finds that financial literacy is an essential element in achieving financial stability and self-sufficiency.Declares an intent to encourage participation in financial literacy training by WorkFirst participants, in order to promote their ability to make financial decisions that will contribute to their long-term financial well-being.Requires the department to consider the options for financial literacy training available in the community, including information and resources available through the financial literacy public-private partnership created under RCW 28A.300.450, and may authorize up to ten hours of financial literacy training as a core activity or an optional activity under WorkFirst.
| Jan 19 | CFS - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 2418-S
by House Committee on Housing (originally sponsored by Representatives Springer, Miloscia, Chase, Morrell, Hasegawa, Darneille, Santos, P. Sullivan, Kagi, Green, Sells, Ormsby, and O'Brien)
Increasing the availability of affordable housing.
Finds that while the rapid increase in housing values has exacerbated the affordable housing crisis, the phenomena has also dramatically benefited the state's general fund, the growth of which is directly attributable to increased proceeds from the real estate excise tax.Declares that a portion of the increased revenue generated from the real estate excise tax must be used to support affordable housing programs that assist low-income households obtain and retain housing. It is the intent of the legislature to appropriate funds as follows: (1) For the energy matchmaker program, the amount appropriated in section 5(3) of this act in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007;(2) For the backlog of housing trust fund projects identified by the department as eligible under this chapter or chapter 43.185A RCW, the amount appropriated in section 5(1) of this act in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, and the amounts appropriated in section 5 (1) and (3) of this act in the fiscal years ending June 30, 2008, June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2010; and(3) For the purposes and amounts identified in section 5 (2) and (4) through (9) of this act, the amounts appropriated in section 5 (2) and (4) through (9) of this act in the fiscal years ending June 30, 2007, June 30, 2008, June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2010.
| Jan 19 | HOUS - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
HB 2545-S
by House Committee on State Government Operations & Accountability (originally sponsored by Representatives Haigh, Nixon, Conway, Morrell, Bailey, McCoy, Green, Springer, McCune, Kilmer, and P. Sullivan)
Revising veterans' scoring criteria in examinations.
Revises veterans' scoring criteria in examinations.
| Jan 23 | SGOA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 2661-S
by House Committee on State Government Operations & Accountability (originally sponsored by Representatives Murray, Hankins, Pettigrew, Jarrett, McDermott, Grant, Lovick, Haigh, Moeller, Shabro, Santos, Kessler, Upthegrove, Tom, Hunter, Hasegawa, Walsh, Fromhold, Springer, Appleton, McCoy, Chase, Hudgins, Kenney, Lantz, Hunt, Darneille, Quall, Takko, Sommers, Williams, Sells, Green, Schual-Berke, Simpson, Clibborn, Conway, Linville, Cody, Kagi, B. Sullivan, McIntire, Dickerson, Miloscia, Roberts, and Ormsby; by request of Governor Gregoire)
Expanding the jurisdiction of the human rights commission.
Expands the jurisdiction of the human rights commission to include cases of discrimination because of a person's sexual orientation.Provides that this act shall not be construed to require an employer to establish employment goals or quotas based on sexual orientation.Provides that inclusion of sexual orientation in chapter 49.60 RCW shall not be construed to modify or supersede state law relating to marriage.
| Jan 18 | SGOA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Jan 19 | Placed on second reading. | |
| Jan 20 | 1st substitute bill substituted. | |
| Floor amendment(s) adopted. | ||
| Rules suspended. Placed on Third Reading. | ||
| Third reading, passed; yeas, 60; nays, 37; absent, 0; excused, 1. | ||
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. | |
HB 3129
by Representatives Serben and Dunn
Concerning off-reservation tribal gaming.
Provides that unless authorized by: (1) The affirmative vote of sixty percent of the members of each house of the legislature; or(2) A compact in effect before the effective date of this act; no compact entered into or amended after the effective date of this act shall authorize or propose to authorize class III gaming on lands acquired by the United States in trust for the benefit of an Indian tribe after October 17, 1988.Does not apply to lands acquired by the United States in trust for the benefit of an Indian tribe after October 17, 1988: (1) Located within or contiguous to the boundaries of the reservation of an Indian tribe as the reservation existed on October 17, 1988; or(2) Taken into trust as part of: (a) A settlement of a land claim; (b) the initial reservation of an Indian tribe acknowledged under the federal acknowledgment process; or (c) the restoration of lands for an Indian tribe that is restored to federal recognition.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3130
by Representatives Serben, Dunn, and Nixon
Allowing smoking in long-term care facilities.
Provides that smoking by residents living in assisted living facilities, veterans' homes, boarding homes, nursing homes, and adult family homes is permitted in a designated smoking area if the home or facility meets the following standards: (1) No designated smoking area may be located in a common area including, but not limited to, entrances, lobbies, hallways, dining rooms, activity rooms, and meeting rooms, where employees, visitors, or nonsmoking residents are required to enter or pass through for work, visits, or services.(2) An indoor designated smoking area must be separated by a floor to ceiling physical barrier from adjacent nonsmoking areas. The smoking area must be identified clearly with signs. The facility or home must maintain sufficient negative air pressure in the designated smoking area to prevent smoke from migrating into nonsmoking areas. The enclosed smoking area must have a ventilation or filter system or both that meets the permissible indoor air exposure limits for vapor phase nicotine and carbon monoxide, as measured by the stricter of the standards set by the United States department of labor, occupational safety and health administration, the Washington state department of labor and industries, or the Washington state department of health. Facilities and homes whose designated smoking areas met these standards as they existed before the enactment of Initiative Measure No. 901 may continue to use those designated smoking areas. The department of labor and industries and the department of health may review existing rules and adopt new rules if needed to better protect staff, visitors, and nonsmoking residents from second-hand smoke.(3) An outdoor designated smoking area must be covered and protected from inclement weather, clearly identified with signs, and reachable by a nonhazardous pathway. The outdoor designated smoking area may be located no closer than fifteen feet from entrances, exits, open windows, and ventilation intakes that serve an enclosed nonsmoking area. The outdoor area must be enclosed on at least two sides to minimize smoke infiltration into the home or facility, and must have an outdoor filter system to absorb smoke when the smoking area is in use.(4) Prospective employees and residents must be informed as to whether the home or facility has a designated smoking area. No employee may be required to enter a designated smoking area while someone is smoking there. Cleaning and maintenance of the designated smoking area must not occur when smokers are present. Persons under the age of eighteen are prohibited from entering or performing any duties in a designated smoking area.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Health Care. | |
HB 3131
by Representatives Jarrett, Clibborn, Nixon, Dunn, and Morrell
Providing tax incentives for the generation of electricity using renewable resources.
Provides tax incentives for the generation of electricity using renewable resources.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Technology, Energy & Communications. | |
HB 3132
by Representatives Hunt, Alexander, and Williams
Modifying provisions relating to the operation of vending facilities and vending machines.
Allows licensees to operate vending facilities and vending machines in public buildings rent free.Authorizes a licensee to subcontract with food service providers in operating vending facilities and vending machines in public buildings.Provides that any private office building located in the capital area that leases space to at least one hundred state employees shall contract with the department of services for the blind to provide vending facilities and/or vending machines in those facilities. If the department indicates to the building owner that a vendor is not available or that the building does not meet the needs of the blind vendors' program, the building owner may then seek other vendors for the facility; however, all vending machines in such facilities shall be provided by the department.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to State Government Operations & Accountability. | |
HB 3133
by Representatives Conway and Chase
Authorizing execution of certain certificates for labor and industries by physician assistants.
Authorizes execution of certain certificates for labor and industries by physician assistants.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3134
by Representatives Conway, Wood, Chase, and Kenney
Determining the amount of compensation for temporary or permanent total disability.
Provides that, for any worker whose entitlement to social security retirement benefits is immediately preceded by an entitlement to social security disability benefits, the offset shall be based on the formulas provided under 42 U.S.C. Sec. 424a. For all other workers entitled to social security retirement benefits, the offset shall be based on procedures established and determined by the department to most closely follow the intent of RCW 51.32.220.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3135
by Representatives Hinkle, Schual-Berke, Holmquist, Shabro, and Schindler
Revising provisions relating to actions for injuries resulting from health care.
Provides that, in an action or arbitration for damages for injury or death occurring as a result of providing health care, or arranging for the provision of health care, whether brought under chapter 7.70, 4.20, or 4.24 RCW, or any other applicable law, the total amount of noneconomic damages that may be awarded to the claimant shall not exceed one million dollars unless the injury or death resulted from an act or omission that constituted gross negligence, or that was reckless, willful or wanton, or intentional, in which case there is no limitation on the amount of noneconomic damages that may be awarded to the claimant.Creates the indigent emergency medical care account in the custody of the state treasurer. The account shall receive deposits of excess awards of noneconomic damages as provided in this act.Provides that expenditures from the account may be used only to provide grants to health care facilities that provide emergency room health care services. The department shall distribute the funds under a formula that provides a relatively larger share of the available funding to health care facilities that serve a disproportionate share of low-income and medically indigent patients with emergency room health care services. Any residue in the account shall accumulate in the account and shall not revert to the general fund at the end of the biennium. Costs incurred by the department in administering the account shall be paid from the account.Provides that an attorney may not contract for or collect a contingency fee for representing a person in connection with an action for damages for injury or death occurring as a result of providing health care or related services, or the arranging for the provision of health care or related services, that exceeds twenty percent of the amount recovered.Declares that the limitation in this provision applies whether the recovery is by judgment, settlement, arbitration, mediation, or other form of alternative dispute resolution.Provides that, for purposes of this act, "recovered" means the net sum recovered after deducting any disbursements or costs incurred in connection with the arbitration, litigation, or settlement of the claim. Costs of medical care incurred by the plaintiff and the attorney's office overhead costs or charges are not deductible disbursements or costs for such purposes.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Judiciary. | |
HB 3136
by Representatives Green, Hinkle, Clibborn, Williams, Cody, Skinner, Moeller, and Lantz
Providing a certification exemption for the conduct of blood-drawing procedures by research staff in the homes of research study participants.
Declares that chapter 18.135 RCW does not prohibit or regulate the performance of blood-drawing procedures by health care assistants in the residences of research study participants when such procedures have been authorized by the institutional review board of a comprehensive cancer center or nonprofit degree-granting institution of higher education and are conducted under the general supervision of a physician.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Health Care. | |
HB 3137
by Representatives Lovick, Curtis, Clements, Hunt, Grant, Ericks, Conway, Morrell, Simpson, and Kenney; by request of Department of Retirement Systems
Determining benefits for surviving spouses of disabled Washington state patrol officers.
Determines benefits for surviving spouses of disabled Washington state patrol officers.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Appropriations. | |
HB 3138
by Representatives Sells, B. Sullivan, Flannigan, Dickerson, and Wallace
Modifying transportation benefit district provisions.
Amends RCW 36.73.015 and 36.73.020 relating to transportation benefit district provisions.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Transportation. | |
HB 3139
by Representatives Pettigrew, Haler, Dickerson, Kagi, Dunn, Walsh, Darneille, Roberts, Hinkle, Morrell, and Kenney
Clarifying kinship caregivers' consent for mental health care of minors.
Clarifies kinship caregivers' consent for mental health care of minors.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3140
by Representatives Chandler, B. Sullivan, Dunn, Takko, Orcutt, Schindler, Newhouse, Dunshee, and Woods
Modifying the boundary review board's authority to alter annexation proposals.
Amends RCW 36.93.150 relating to the boundary review board's authority to modify annexation proposals.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Local Government. | |
HB 3141
by Representatives Haler, Grant, Clements, Newhouse, Hankins, and Chandler
Requiring a study of competing interests of domestic water users.
Requires the department of ecology to, by December 31, 2006, study and prepare a report to the appropriate committees of the legislature on ways that the department and other stakeholders can better understand the competing interests of domestic surface water users and other surface water users in regards to limited water supplies who are affected by a curtailment of domestic water right use that has been enacted by a court order.Provides that the study conducted under this act shall be limited to basins currently involved in a water rights adjudication and must: (1) Provide a summary of the circumstances that have contributed to the competition between domestic water users and other water users;(2) Include a survey involving the owners of the residences; and(3) Recommend suggested legislation or other solutions for resolving conflicts between competing interests for a limited water resource.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade. | |
HB 3142
by Representatives Eickmeyer, Sump, McCoy, Chase, Dunn, and Upthegrove
Providing sales and use tax exemptions for certain on-site sewage disposal systems.
Provides sales and use tax exemptions for certain on-site sewage disposal systems.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Select Committee on Hood Canal. | |
HB 3143
by Representatives Chase, Dunn, and Ericks
Directing the state parks and recreation commission to convey Saint Edward state park to the city of Kenmore.
Directs the state parks and recreation commission to convey Saint Edward state park to the city of Kenmore.Requires the city of Kenmore to maintain as a park all conveyed land that is currently dedicated to use as a state park. The title, and any other documents necessary for the transfer of these lands, will include covenants ensuring that the city of Kenmore will maintain the currently dedicated park land as a city park. The city of Kenmore shall maintain any undeveloped piece of property on Lake Washington in existing condition, take measures to preserve near shore habitat for fresh water mussels and other aquatic life, and may not build a marina on the lake shore. If the city of Kenmore breaches these covenants, ownership of the dedicated park lands reverts to the state parks and recreation commission.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks. | |
HB 3144
by Representatives Fromhold, Serben, Orcutt, Grant, Crouse, Dunn, Jarrett, Haler, and Kilmer
Authorizing community revitalization financing.
Recognizes that the state as a whole benefits from investment in public infrastructure because it promotes community and economic development. Public investment stimulates business activity and helps create jobs; stimulates the redevelopment of brownfields and blighted areas in the inner city; lowers the cost of housing; and promotes efficient land use.Finds that these activities generate revenue for the state and that it is in the public interest to invest in these projects through a credit against the state sales and use tax to those local governments that can demonstrate the expected returns to the state.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade. | |
HB 3145
by Representatives P. Sullivan, Nixon, Hunt, Wood, Fromhold, Crouse, Grant, Condotta, Kessler, Kretz, Buri, Serben, Flannigan, Kristiansen, Ahern, Armstrong, Sump, Talcott, McDonald, Upthegrove, Tom, Quall, Darneille, Anderson, Woods, Schual-Berke, Bailey, Rodne, Morrell, Appleton, Kilmer, Green, Roberts, Sells, Kagi, Hudgins, Santos, and Kenney
Creating a pilot project in civics education.
Declares that the purpose of this act is to create a pilot project that will help to graduate students who are better voters, better citizens, and who are ready to take an informed and responsible place in society.Directs the office of the superintendent of public instruction to work with selected county auditors' offices to develop an interactive high school civics curriculum to help students learn how to become informed citizens. The curriculum shall meet the requirements for the office of the superintendent of public instruction's classroom-based assessments. Staff from the office of the superintendent of public instruction shall work directly in the curriculum development.Appropriates the sum of two hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, from the general fund to the office of the state auditor for the purposes of this act.Appropriates the sum of two hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008, from the general fund to the office of the state auditor for the purposes of this act.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Education. | |
HB 3146
by Representatives Linville, Serben, Ericksen, Hunt, Ormsby, Kessler, Wood, Morrell, and Kilmer
Supporting community-based health care solutions.
Finds that: (1) Despite sustained efforts at the federal and state level, too many people in Washington remain without access to appropriate health care. Particularly alarming is the increase in the number of small business employees who are uninsured. Without a health home, many low-income and other vulnerable populations are left to inefficiently navigate a fragmented treatment system that fails to support their long-term well-being.(2) In recent years, numerous community-based organizations have emerged around the state to address health care concerns at a local level. Through innovation and public/private collaboration, they have demonstrated great success and show even greater promise in improving health care access for local residents. Less remote than state and federal agencies, these organizations have built on local relationships to increase the availability and affordability of services, and coordinate care, making efficient use of a wide variety of community resources to meet community needs.(3) Many of these organizations have relied on grants from the healthy communities access program, an initiative of the United States department of health and human services that provided funding and technical assistance to support collaborative efforts at the local level to coordinate and strengthen health services for the uninsured and underinsured. The program, however, was recently discontinued, placing these local efforts at risk.Declares that it is therefore the intent of the legislature to enhance and support the development of collaborative community-based organizations working at the local level to increase access to health care for Washington residents.Provides that, by July 1, 2008, the board shall provide the governor and the legislature with an evaluation of the community health care collaborative grant program, describing the organizations and programs funded and the results achieved. Particularly successful programs shall be highlighted with recommendations on whether, and how, the programs could be replicated statewide. The evaluation shall also summarize any recommendations from the participating organizations regarding ways to improve the grant program and for the state to otherwise support community-based organizations working to improve access to health care for Washington residents, including any changes in state statutes or regulations.Appropriates the sum of three million one hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, is appropriated from the general fund to the health care authority for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, to carry out the purposes of this act. No more than one hundred thousand dollars may be used by the health care authority for administrative expenses associated with the program.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Health Care. | |
HB 3147
by Representatives Hunt, Williams, Priest, Serben, and Rodne
Creating provisions relating to asbestos liability.
Finds that the number of asbestos-related claims has increased significantly in recent years and threatens the continued viability of one or more uniquely situated companies that have not ever manufactured, sold, or distributed asbestos or asbestos products, and are liable only as successor corporations. This liability has created an overpowering public necessity to provide an immediate, remedial, legislative solution.Declares an intent that the cumulative recovery by all asbestos claimants from innocent successors be limited, and intends to simply change the form of asbestos claimants' remedies without impairing their substantive rights, and finds that there are no alternative means to meet this public necessity.Finds that public interest as a whole is best served by providing relief to these innocent successors, so that they may remain viable and continue to contribute to this state.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Judiciary. | |
HB 3148
by Representatives Kagi, Darneille, and Roberts
Concerning investigations of child abuse.
Finds that judicial interpretation of child abuse investigation statutes has imposed potentially irreconcilable duties on the department of social and health services and governmental entities that are obligated to investigate child abuse and neglect referrals. Courts have ruled that investigators of child abuse allegations have the obligation to protect children by removing them from unsafe homes but also have ruled that these same statutes establish an equal duty to protect the family unit, even where the parent is the alleged abuser.Finds that concerns about tort liability arising from these conflicting duties impair investigators' ability to perform their statutory obligations. While recognizing the rights of parents and the importance of the family unit, the legislature finds that the paramount purpose of chapter 26.44 RCW is to benefit children. When the child's interests of basic nurture, physical and mental health, and safety conflict with the parents' interests, the interests of the child should prevail. In conducting investigations under this chapter, appropriate placement of the child during or immediately after the investigation shall be the department's paramount concern.Declares that the legislature expressly intends to: (1) Overrule Tyner v. DSHS and other cases in which the courts have held that this chapter creates an implied right of action for parents or other caretakers who are alleged abusers;(2) Codify the portions of the holdings in M.W. v. DSHS and Roberson v. Perez that tort liability arising out of this chapter is confined to the initial placement decision and not the manner in which the investigation was conducted;(3) Have the interests of the parents protected through the judicial review and other procedures established pursuant to RCW 26.44.100 through 26.44.125 and chapter 13.34 RCW.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Judiciary. | |
HB 3149
by Representatives Condotta, Hinkle, and Armstrong
Increasing the fuel tax rate used to determine fuel tax distributions to fund nonhighway expenditures.
Increases the fuel tax rate used to determine fuel tax distributions to fund nonhighway expenditures.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Transportation. | |
HB 3150
by Representatives Condotta, Linville, Kenney, Chase, Kessler, Conway, Holmquist, Morrell, Newhouse, and Armstrong
Concerning efforts to promote the wine industry.
Declares that the following activities do not constitute advertising for the purposes of RCW 66.08.060: (1) In-store liquor merchandising;(2) Private label wine marketing; and(3) Brochures and materials containing information regarding domestic wineries and their products and other licensed persons.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3151
by Representatives Pearson, Kristiansen, and Ahern
Providing the utilities and transportation commission with guidelines when reviewing service extension requests.
Provides that, upon receiving a written complaint from an individual who has been denied a petition for service extension by a telecommunications company, the commission must conduct an investigation. The commission must investigate the complaint and issue a written decision within ninety days. In investigating a complaint, the commission must consider: (1) The total direct cost of the extension;(2) The number of customers served;(3) The comparative price and capabilities of radio communication service or other alternatives available to customers;(4) Technological difficulties and physical barriers presented by the requested extensions;(5) The likelihood that other neighboring customers may request service if the service extension is granted;(6) The effect on the individuals and communities involved;(7) The effect on the public switched network; and(8) The effect on the company.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Technology, Energy & Communications. | |
HB 3152
by Representatives Kagi, Walsh, Roberts, Haler, and Dickerson
Establishing the family assessment response demonstration program.
Declares an intent to establish an alternative, flexible approach to responding to allegations of child maltreatment in low-risk families who do not present immediate child safety concerns. This differential response is intended to reduce disruption to families and improve child safety by assessing a family's needs, engaging the family's protective capacities, and providing appropriate services to prevent future maltreatment.Directs the Washington state institute for public policy to study the family assessment response demonstration program and report to the legislature by January 31, 2009. In consultation with the department, the institute shall define the data to be gathered and maintained for the purpose of the study. At a minimum, the study must review child safety outcomes and rereferrals to child protective services.Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3153
by Representatives Haler, Pettigrew, Roberts, Kagi, and Kenney
Concerning retention of records regarding child abuse and neglect.
Provides that except as provided in RCW 26.44.031, the department shall retain records regarding child abuse or neglect referrals that result in a finding of inconclusive or for which there is not sufficient evidence to make a determination, for not less than twenty years. The department shall retain indefinitely the records regarding: (1) Referrals that result in a founded complaint or for which the evidence indicates that more likely than not the abuse or neglect allegations were accurate; and(2) Referrals that result in a termination of parental rights.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3154
by Representatives Condotta, Wood, and Newhouse
Concerning the retail sale of beer.
Authorizes a domestic brewery holding a spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to sell beer of its own production for off-premises consumption from its restaurant premises in kegs or in a sanitary container brought to the premises by the purchaser or furnished by the licensee and filled at the tap by the licensee at the time of sale.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3155
by Representatives Roberts, Haler, Kagi, Walsh, Hudgins, Chase, Darneille, Linville, Dickerson, Schual-Berke, Conway, Hasegawa, Simpson, and Santos
Creating an office of the ombudsman for persons with developmental disabilities.
Creates an office of the ombudsman for persons with developmental disabilities within the office of the governor for the purpose of promoting public awareness and understanding of developmental disabilities, identifying system issues and responses for the governor and the legislature to act upon, and monitoring and ensuring compliance with administrative acts, relevant statutes, rules, and policies pertaining to services for persons with developmental disabilities. The ombudsman shall report directly to the governor and shall exercise his or her powers and duties independently of the secretary of the department of social and health services.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3156
by Representatives Darneille, Haler, Dickerson, Morrell, Pettigrew, and Simpson
Creating a pilot program to assist low-income families.
Requires that, by December 1, 2006, the department of community, trade, and economic development must establish a pilot program to assist low-income families accumulate assets. The pilot program will use the existing community action agencies established under RCW 43.63A.115. The community action agencies must facilitate bringing together community partners to determine the asset building programs to initiate within the community. Requires the department to report to the legislature by December 1, 2007, on the progress of the implementation of the pilot program including the request for proposals process, the response from the counties to the request for proposal, the status of the program, and any implementation issues that arose in initiating the pilot program.Provides that, to the extent funding is appropriated, the department of community, trade, and economic development must establish a program to create an outreach campaign to increase the number of eligible families who claim the federal earned income tax credit. The department may work collaboratively with other state agencies, private and nonprofit agencies, local communities, and others with expertise that might assist the department in implementing the program.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade. | |
HB 3157
by Representatives Darneille, Haler, Morrell, Dickerson, Pettigrew, Simpson, Hudgins, and Santos
Requiring that TANF recipients be given information on available programs for financial literacy.
Requires the department to encourage recipients of temporary assistance for needy families to learn about asset building and participate in programs to assist low-income persons in developing personal assets. The department shall provide its regional offices, recipients of temporary assistance for needy families, and any contractors providing job search, training, or placement services notification of programs available in the state for financial literacy, individual development accounts, assistance with federal income tax information and the availability of tax credits, and other resources to assist with asset building.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3158
by Representatives Roberts, Haler, Kagi, Walsh, Hudgins, Darneille, Dickerson, Schual-Berke, and Simpson
Authorizing record checks for developmental disabilities service providers.
Provides that all persons who provide services under chapter 71A.12 RCW and who will have regularly scheduled unsupervised access to persons with developmental disabilities are required to submit to a record check through the Washington state patrol criminal identification system under RCW 43.43.830 through 43.43.834, 10.97.030, and 10.97.050, and through the federal bureau of investigation. The record check shall include a fingerprint check using a complete Washington state criminal identification fingerprint card.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
HB 3159
by Representatives Linville, Newhouse, Grant, Kessler, Orcutt, Chandler, Dunn, and Kristiansen
Modifying the excise taxation of food products.
Revises the excise taxation of food products.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Finance. | |
HB 3160
by Representatives Hudgins, Conway, Chase, and Simpson
Requiring disclosure of information regarding work done for the state.
Declares an intent to change requirements related to disclosure of information about state contracts that are performed, in whole or in part, at locations outside the United States.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HB 3161
by Representatives Simpson and Chase
Using adequacy of water supply in determining population projections.
Provides that the population projections must be accompanied by a statement from the director of financial management, in consultation with appropriate state agencies and officials, stating that adequate water supplies exist or will be available to serve the projected population.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Local Government. | |
HB 3162
by Representatives Simpson and Schindler
Adjusting contracting limits for water-sewer districts.
Amends RCW 57.08.050 to adjust contracting limits for water-sewer districts.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Local Government. | |
HB 3163
by Representatives Simpson, Schindler, Chase, and Upthegrove
Including special districts in growth management planning.
Revises provisions relating to the role of fire protection districts and water-sewer districts in growth management planning.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Local Government. | |
HB 3164
by Representatives Kilmer, Kristiansen, Linville, Bailey, Pettigrew, P. Sullivan, Dunn, Ericks, Appleton, Green, Morrell, Sells, and Simpson
Increasing the personal property exemption for the head of a family.
Finds that it is in the public interest of the people of the state of Washington to ease the burden of property taxes paid by the head of a family. To achieve this purpose, this act increases the amount of personal property exemption for the head of a family from three thousand dollars to ten thousand dollars. The last time this exemption was increased was 1988. It is the clear and unambiguous intent of the legislature that the property described within this measure shall be exempt for taxation, as authorized by Article VII, section 1 of the state Constitution.Declares that this act takes effect January 1, 2007, if the proposed amendment to Article VII, section 1 of the state Constitution authorizing an increased personal exemption for the head of a family is validly submitted to and is approved and ratified by the voters at the next general election. If the proposed amendment is not approved and ratified, this act is void in its entirety.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Finance. | |
HB 3165
by Representatives Miloscia, Chase, and Hasegawa
Using surplus property to develop affordable housing.
Provides that property suitable for the development of affordable housing shall be offered first to public and private nonprofit housing organizations that have ninety days to present a formal offer to purchase the property before the property is offered for sale to the general public. Nonprofits may purchase a property at ninety percent of appraised value under reasonable option and purchase conditions.Provides that, by November 1st of each year, beginning in 2006, the inventory revision produced by the department shall include a report on properties that were purchased by a nonprofit housing organization and properties that were used, or have plans to be used, for the development of affordable housing.Directs the department of community, trade, and economic development to produce a single statewide report that is provided to the appropriate committees of the legislature.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Housing. | |
HB 3166
by Representatives Hunter, Jarrett, Clibborn, Kagi, and Tom
Permitting wine and beer sales from manufacturers to retailers.
Declares that the purpose of this act is to grant certificate of approval holders the same distribution rights granted to domestic wineries under RCW 66.24.170 and to domestic breweries under RCW 66.24.240.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Commerce & Labor. | |
HJR 4222
by Representatives Serben, Haler, Dunn, and Ericks
Amending the Constitution to make public safety another paramount duty of the state.
Proposes an amendment to the state Constitution to make public safety another paramount duty of the state.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to State Government Operations & Accountability. | |
HJR 4223
by Representatives Kilmer, Kristiansen, Linville, Bailey, Pettigrew, P. Sullivan, Dunn, Ericks, Morrell, Appleton, Green, Sells, and Simpson
Amending the state Constitution to increase the personal property tax exemption for the head of a family.
Proposes an amendment to the state Constitution to increase the personal property tax exemption for the head of a family.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Finance. | |
HCR 4415
by Representatives Kessler, Armstrong, and Dunn
Approving the names of certain state facilities.
Approves the names of certain state facilities.
| Jan 23 | Held on first reading. | |
HCR 4416
by Representatives Quall, Chase, and Talcott
Requiring that a summary of the findings and recommendations of the joint select committee on secondary education be forwarded to Washington Learns.
Resolves that the joint select committee on secondary education created under House Concurrent Resolution No. 4408 in 2005 summarize its findings and recommendations and forward them to the advisory and steering committees of Washington Learns by May 15, 2006.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Education. | |
SB 6193-S
by Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Franklin, Regala, Keiser, Eide, Prentice, Rasmussen, Jacobsen, Fairley, McAuliffe, Fraser, Brown, Kline, Kohl-Welles, Parlette, and Shin)
Requiring surveys of health professions work force supply and demographics.
Requires that, every two years the department, in collaboration with the work force training and education coordinating board, shall distribute survey questions for the purpose of gathering data related to work force supply and demographics to all health care providers who are licensed to practice in Washington.Requires the department to process the surveys that it receives in such a way that the identity of individual providers remains anonymous. Data elements related to the identification of individual providers shall be confidential and shall be exempt from chapter 42.56 RCW, except as provided in a data-sharing agreement approved by the department pursuant to this act.
| Jan 20 | HEA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6245-S
by Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections (originally sponsored by Senators Kastama, Roach, Pflug, Parlette, Shin, and Kohl-Welles; by request of Lieutenant Governor)
Raising funds to host the 2006 national conference of lieutenant governors.
Finds that due to the massive devastation inflicted on the city of New Orleans by hurricane Katrina on August 29, 2005, the city of New Orleans will not be able to meet its obligation to host the national lieutenant governors' association's annual conference scheduled for July 17 through July 19, 2006.Finds that, in recognition of the unprecedented situation created by this natural disaster, the high national visibility of this important event, and due to the limited amount of time remaining for planning and fund-raising, it is necessary to initiate fund-raising activities for this national conference as soon as possible and with the assurance that all statewide elected officials, legislators, and authorized executive and legislative staff are allowed to solicit the necessary donations to effectively host this event.
| Jan 20 | GO - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6766
by Senators Schmidt, McAuliffe, and Rasmussen
Regarding the national guard conditional scholarship.
Amends RCW 28B.103.010 and 28B.103.020 regarding the national guard conditional scholarship.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. | |
SB 6767
by Senators Regala, Rockefeller, Kastama, and Rasmussen; by request of Governor Gregoire and State Auditor
Addressing government performance and accountability.
Finds that: (1) An independent citizen advisory board is necessary to ensure that government services, customer satisfaction, program efficiency, and management systems are world class in performance. A citizen advisory board will ensure that efforts to improve performance are coordinated across state government and prioritized to prevent duplication of effort and achieve the highest value for taxpayer dollars; and(2) Essential tools for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of government include fair, independent, and professional performance audits of state agencies, performance reviews, a performance-based budgeting process, and quality assessments.Declares that the role of the citizen advisory board is to advise the governor on: (1) Improving state government efficiency and effectiveness, including best practices from public and private sectors;(2) Ensuring that efforts to improve performance are coordinated and prioritized across state government to achieve the highest value for taxpayer dollars;(3) Increasing the accountability of state government through effective communication to citizens;(4) Ensuring that performance improvement efforts by state agencies, the state auditor, and the legislature are fair, independent, and professional; and(5) Engaging citizens to assist in identifying priorities.Repeals RCW 43.09.440, 43.09.445, and 43.88.162.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Government Operations & Elections. | |
SB 6768
by Senators Kline, Esser, Rasmussen, Johnson, Thibaudeau, Franklin, and Delvin
Revising penalties concerning minors with alcoholic beverages.
Provides that the court may suspend a driver's license issued to or the driving privilege of a person for not more than: (1) Thirty days for a first conviction; and(2) Six months for a second or subsequent conviction.Requires the department of licensing to promptly suspend a driver's license issued to or the driving privilege of a person, upon the court's imposition of a suspension of a driver's license or driving privilege under RCW 66.44.270(1).Requires the department to promptly suspend a driver's license issued to or the driving privilege of a person who is under the age of twenty-one years upon a violation of RCW 66.44.270(2)(a) or 66.44.290 (1) or (4).
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Judiciary. | |
SB 6769
by Senators Fraser, Brandland, Kastama, Rasmussen, Keiser, and Kohl-Welles
Providing information about sex offenders placed or living in long-term care facilities.
Provides that, in addition to the disclosures authorized under RCW 4.24.550, when a sex offender classified at risk level II or III is expected to be released or placed by the department of corrections or a local jail into a nursing home, boarding home, adult family home, or other licensed long-term care facility, or already resides or is expected to reside in such a home or facility, the local law enforcement agency shall disclose relevant, necessary, and accurate information about the sex offender to the department of social and health services and to the administrator or operator of the home or facility. The administrator or operator of the facility shall notify its staff, the residents or their representatives, and the state long-term care ombudsman of level II or III sex offenders admitted or residing in the home or facility.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Human Services & Corrections. | |
SB 6770
by Senators Fraser, Zarelli, Pridemore, Benton, Kastama, Sheldon, and Rasmussen
Changing the population threshold for counties eligible to use the design-build procedure.
Revises the population threshold for counties eligible to use the design-build procedure.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6771
by Senators Prentice and Johnson
Creating provisions relating to asbestos liability.
Finds that the number of asbestos-related claims has increased significantly in recent years and threatens the continued viability of one or more uniquely situated companies that have not ever manufactured, sold, or distributed asbestos or asbestos products, and are liable only as successor corporations. This liability has created an overpowering public necessity to provide an immediate, remedial, legislative solution.Declares an intent that the cumulative recovery by all asbestos claimants from innocent successors be limited, and intends to simply change the form of asbestos claimants' remedies without impairing their substantive rights, and finds that there are no alternative means to meet this public necessity.Finds that public interest as a whole is best served by providing relief to these innocent successors, so that they may remain viable and continue to contribute to this state.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Judiciary. | |
SB 6772
by Senators Rasmussen and Honeyford
Integrating HVAC/R mechanics and contractors into the provisions governing plumbers.
Integrates HVAC/R mechanics and contractors into the provisions governing plumbers.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Labor, Commerce, Research & Development. | |
SB 6773
by Senators Zarelli, Doumit, Rockefeller, Brandland, Parlette, Pridemore, Rasmussen, and Schoesler
Exempting certain extended warranties from sales and use taxation.
Provides that the sale of an extended warranty that warrants tangible personal property exempt from the sales tax levied by RCW 82.08.020 is also exempt from the tax levied by RCW 82.08.020.Provides that the provisions of chapter 82.12 RCW do not apply in respect to the use of an extended warranty that warrants tangible personal property exempt from use tax imposed under this chapter.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6774
by Senators Rockefeller, Zarelli, Brandland, Parlette, Shin, Regala, Rasmussen, McAuliffe, and Mulliken
Restoring the business and occupation tax credit for high technology research and development spending.
Restores the business and occupation tax credit for high technology research and development spending.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6775
by Senators Hargrove, Stevens, Rasmussen, and McAuliffe; by request of Attorney General
Creating the crime of criminal trespass against children.
Declares an intent to give public and private entities that provide services to children the tools necessary to prevent convicted child sex offenders from contacting children when those children are within the legal boundaries of the covered public and private entities.Provides that an owner, employee, or agent of a covered entity may order a sex offender from the legal premises of a covered entity as provided under this act. To do this, the owner, employee, or agent of a covered entity must first personally serve on the sex offender a written notice that informs the sex offender that: (1) The sex offender must leave the legal premises of the covered entity and may not return without the written permission of the covered entity; and(2) If the sex offender refuses to leave the legal boundaries of the covered entity, or thereafter returns and enters within the legal boundaries of the covered entity, the offender may be charged and prosecuted for a felony offense as provided in this act.Declares that a person is guilty of the crime of criminal trespass against children if he or she: (1) Is a sex offender as defined in this act;(2) Receives written notice that complies with the requirements of this act that he or she is not permitted to remain upon or reenter the legal boundaries of the covered entity; and(3) Remains upon or reenters the legal boundaries of the covered entity without the written permission of the covered entity.Declares that criminal trespass against children is a class C felony.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Human Services & Corrections. | |
SB 6776
by Senators Finkbeiner, Poulsen, Weinstein, Esser, Rasmussen, Keiser, Oke, Kline, and Kohl-Welles
Prohibiting the unauthorized sale of cell phone numbers.
Provides that no person shall buy or sell the telephone number or call record of any subscriber of a radio communications service company without the written or electronic permission of the subscriber.Does not apply to the provision of telephone numbers for the purposes indicated in RCW 19.250.010(4).Declares that a single violation of this act is a gross misdemeanor. Each subsequent violation of this act, whether alleged in the same or in subsequent prosecutions, is a class C felony punishable according to chapter 9A.20 RCW.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Water, Energy & Environment. | |
SB 6777
by Senator Swecker
Modifying voter registration timelines.
Revises voter registration timelines.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Government Operations & Elections. | |
SB 6778
by Senator Morton
Requiring the department of fish and wildlife to draft a grey wolf management plan.
Requires the department of fish and wildlife, using existing resources and personnel, to develop a draft grey wolf management plan and present the plan to the legislature by December 31, 2006. The department of fish and wildlife shall hold a public hearing on the draft plan in each of the department's regions prior to transmitting the report to the legislature.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation. | |
SB 6779
by Senators Morton and Rasmussen
Authorizing a public utility tax credit for the cost of providing certain special needs transportation services.
Authorizes a public utility tax credit for the cost of providing certain special needs transportation services.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Water, Energy & Environment. | |
SB 6780
by Senators Kohl-Welles, Carrell, McAuliffe, Weinstein, Esser, Pridemore, Berkey, Delvin, Rasmussen, and Keiser
Creating a mathematics/science scholar high school diploma and scholarship.
Finds that it is imperative to encourage and inspire our Washington students to pursue higher education in the fields of mathematics, science, and engineering. Our economic viability depends on this, both as a state and as a nation.Creates the mathematics/science scholar high school diploma. This diploma shall be awarded to public school students, and approved private school students at the discretion of the approved private school, who complete the following requirements: (1) Successfully earn the following high school credits: (a) Four mathematics credits, including calculus; (b) at least three science credits, including chemistry and physics; and (c) at least three credits of world language other than English;(2) Receive advanced placement scores of three or higher on at least two advance placement tests;(3) Earn a high school grade point average of 3.5 or above; and(4) Meet the state standards in all content areas of the high school level Washington assessment of student achievement.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. | |
SB 6781
by Senators Prentice, Pflug, Fraser, Parlette, Shin, and Schoesler
Modifying the excise taxation of environmental remediation services.
Revises the excise taxation of environmental remediation services.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6782
by Senator Fraser
Authorizing state employees to express their professional opinions.
Finds that: (1) A workplace where state employees can feel free to express their professional opinions encourages an open and free exchange of ideas and knowledge and more efficient government;(2) Scientific integrity in work by state employees is increasingly important as the issues the state faces are increasing in complexity; and(3) Many professional licenses require license holders to express their professional opinions and make independent professional judgments in their work.Provides that state employees may express their professional opinions in the workplace on topics within their scope of duties, even if those opinions differ from the agency's official position or their supervisor's opinions.Provides that any retaliation, disciplinary action, or withholding of a promotion to a state employee because he or she expressed his or her professional opinion or refused to sign a document as provided for under this act is a violation of chapter 42.52 RCW.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Labor, Commerce, Research & Development. | |
SB 6783
by Senators Shin, Pflug, Schmidt, McAuliffe, Berkey, Rockefeller, Eide, Delvin, Rasmussen, and Kohl-Welles
Creating the qualified professions conditional scholarship.
Finds that encouraging outstanding students to enter mathematics and science professions is of paramount importance to the state of Washington. By creating the mathematics and science professions conditional scholarship and loan repayment program, the legislature intends to assist in the effort to recruit as mathematics and science professionals individuals who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement or demonstrated their commitment to mathematics and science professions.Urges business, industry, and philanthropic community organizations to join with state government in making this program successful.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. | |
SB 6784
by Senators Benson and Kohl-Welles
Providing sales and use tax exemptions for prescribed durable medical equipment used in the home and prescribed mobility enhancing equipment.
Provides sales and use tax exemptions for prescribed durable medical equipment used in the home and prescribed mobility enhancing equipment.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6785
by Senators Jacobsen, Swecker, Haugen, and Benson; by request of Department of Transportation and Department of Licensing
Modifying the administration of fuel taxes.
Revises the administration of fuel taxes.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Transportation. | |
SB 6786
by Senators Jacobsen, Benson, Kastama, Esser, Haugen, and Prentice
Clarifying the dissolution process for a voter-mandated dissolution of a city transportation authority.
Provides that, as of the effective date of this act the powers and duties of the governing body of a city transportation authority shall be transferred to the city council in which the city transportation authority was created. The city council's exercise of the powers enumerated in chapter 35.95A RCW shall be limited to the purposes of efficiently dissolving the city transportation authority.Declares that the transfer of the powers and duties of the governing body of a city transportation authority to the city council shall not transfer the debts, obligations, or liabilities of the city transportation authority to the city.Repeals provisions of chapter 35.95A RCW.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Transportation. | |
SB 6787
by Senators Rockefeller, Poulsen, Haugen, and Oke
Modifying funding for local government passenger ferry service.
Requires that, by August 1st, November 1st, February 1st, and May 1st of every year, the department of transportation shall notify the state treasurer in writing of the amount of state sales and use tax paid under chapters 82.08 and 82.12 RCW by the Washington state ferries on the purchase of fuel for the preceding calendar quarter. By September 1st, December 1st, March 1st, and June 1st of every year, the state treasurer shall transfer an amount equal to the amount indicated by the department in their notification to the treasurer into the passenger ferry account created in RCW 47.60.645.Requires that, by April 1, 2007, the department shall sell or otherwise dispose of the Washington state ferries Snohomish and Chinook for market value and deposit the proceeds of the sales into the passenger ferry account established under RCW 47.60.645.Requires that, by April 1, 2007, the department shall sell or otherwise dispose of the Washington state ferries Skagit and Kalama for market value or offer the ferries as a grant to a Washington state public transportation benefit area or county for use on a ferry system operated by the recipient. Proceeds from the sale of the ferries shall be deposited in the passenger ferry account established under RCW 47.60.645.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Transportation. | |
SB 6788
by Senators Kastama and Rasmussen
Relating to assistance to financially distressed counties.
Introduced by title and introductory section only.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Government Operations & Elections. | |
SB 6789
by Senators Brown, Doumit, Morton, and Rasmussen
Modifying the authorized uses of certain county sales and use taxes.
Revises the authorized uses of certain county sales and use taxes.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6790
by Senators Roach, McAuliffe, Schmidt, and Rasmussen
Studying whether to require a class in first aid for high school graduation.
Directs the state board of education to review the need for having a class in first aid as a requirement for high school graduation and report its findings to appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2007.
| Jan 23 | First reading, referred to Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education. | |