SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6023

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 16, 2012

Title: An act relating to creating the permit efficiency and accountability committee to select priority economic recovery projects for review by multiagency permitting teams.

Brief Description: Creating the permit efficiency and accountability committee to select priority economic recovery projects for review by multiagency permitting teams.

Sponsors: Senators Swecker, Prentice, Benton, Pridemore, Schoesler, Haugen, Kilmer, Chase, Hill, Holmquist Newbry, Becker, Ranker, Ericksen, Shin and Frockt.

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 1/16/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & INNOVATION

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: Multiagency Permitting (MAP) teams were authorized in 2010 legislation to spur economic development and job creation during the current economic and financial crisis. MAP teams coordinate permitting and integrate regulatory decision making for certain targeted public and private projects, at the request of proponents of those projects. Project proponents may provide funding through cost-reimbursement agreements. The Office of Regulatory Assistance manages MAP teams.

Summary of Bill: Creates a second process to use MAP teams, focused on priority economic development projects supported by local communities and creating or retaining a substantial number of jobs.

The Permit Efficiency and Accountability Committee (PEAC), is created with nine voting members and up to ten non-voting members. The voting members include four legislators; one representative each from the departments of Ecology, Fish & Wildlife, and Natural Resources; one representative of the association of Washington Cities; and one representative of the Washington State Association of Counties. The nonvoting members include representatives of business, environmental, tribal organizations, and federal agencies.

PEAC is authorized to: (1) select priority economic recovery projects; (2) assign those projects to MAP teams to coordinate permitting and integrate regulatory decision making for the projects; and (3) monitor MAP team progress regarding the projects. PEAC may select up to two projects by July 31, 2012, and others later, based on resources of project proponents and permit agencies.

The current MAP cost reimbursement and cost sharing contracting process is clarified. Provisions relating to the MAP account are changed including making it a non-appropriated account rather than an appropriated account.

There is an emergency clause.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 12, 2012.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: Yes.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.