SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1863
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 March 26, 2013
Title: An act relating to allowing the department of labor and industries to provide information about scholarships available to children and spouses of certain injured or deceased workers.
Brief Description: Allowing the department of labor and industries to provide information about certain scholarships.
Sponsors: Representatives Stonier, Chandler, Sells, Haler, Fitzgibbon, Ross, Bergquist, Goodman, Carlyle, Hope, Reykdal, Ormsby, Stanford, Green, Ryu, Pollet and Freeman.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/05/13, 96-0.
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 3/20/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)
Background: The state Ethics in Public Service Act generally prohibits the use of state resources for the private benefit of others, and the granting of special privileges to others. A number of exemptions to the general prohibitions exist, allowing specific state commissions or employees to solicit contributions or distribute communications for various purposes.
Summary of Bill: A new exemption to the Ethics in Public Service Act is created, allowing the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) to provide information about scholarship opportunities offered by nonprofit organizations to children and spouses of workers who suffered an on-the-job injury resulting in death or permanent disability. The cost of printing materials, additional mailing costs, and any other related costs must be covered by the organization.
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.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a small bill that will do great things. There are nonprofits that provide scholarships to children and spouses of Washington workers who were permanently disabled or killed at work. This bill allows information about those scholarships to be included in materials mailed out by L&I. Any costs are the responsibility of the nonprofit organization, and L&I has the discretion to decide which nonprofits can do this.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Stonier, prime sponsor; Dave Kaplan, WA Self Insurers Assn.; Cody Arledge, Kid's Chance.