SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5146

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of January 20, 2011

Title: An act relating to disclosure of production and export information on patented or trademarked fruit.

Brief Description: Concerning the disclosure of certain information regarding patented or trademarked fruit.

Sponsors: Senator Honeyford.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Agriculture & Rural Economic Development: 1/24/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)

Background: The state Public Records Act requires state and local government entities to disclose records upon request, subject to several exemptions. Certain private-sector agriculture-related information is exempt from disclosure, including consignment information in phytosanitary inspection certificates, financial and commercial information regarding commodity production or marketing, and fruit and vegetable packer and shipper information collected for certificates of compliance.

Summary of Bill: Public disclosure exemptions for certain agriculture-related information are revised to provide that information about production, interstate trade, and export of patented or trademarked fruit must be provided upon request to patent or trademark holders to verify production, interstate trade, and export volumes, but not for other commercial purposes.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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