SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5758

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 February 21, 2013

Title: An act relating to making coverage of certain maritime service elective for purposes of unemployment compensation.

Brief Description: Making coverage of certain maritime service elective for purposes of unemployment compensation.

Sponsors: Senators Holmquist Newbry, Braun and King.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/22/13.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)

Background: Most employment is covered employment for purposes of unemployment insurance. With respect to maritime employment, an individual's service as an officer or crew member of an American vessel is covered, wherever the service is performed, if the employer maintains an in-state operating office at the start of the pay period from which the operations of the vessel are ordinarily managed and controlled.

Summary of Bill: Services performed by an individual on a fishing boat is not covered employment if the employer is not a reimbursable employer; the individual receives only a share of the boat's catch or the proceeds from the sale of the catch; the amount of the share depends on the amount of fish caught; and the operating crew of the boat is normally made up of fewer than ten individuals.

A maritime employer may elect to cover exempt employees.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available (on companion).

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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