SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6343
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 Passed Senate, February 12, 2016
Title: An act relating to modifying the powers and duties of the Washington dairy products commission to include research and education related to the economic uses of nutrients produced by dairy farms.
Brief Description: Modifying the powers and duties of the Washington dairy products commission to include research and education related to the economic uses of nutrients produced by dairy farms.
Sponsors: Senators Warnick, Takko, Hobbs and Chase; by request of Department of Agriculture.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development: 1/26/16, 1/28/16 [DP].
Passed Senate: 2/12/16, 48-0.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Warnick, Chair; Dansel, Vice Chair; Takko, Ranking Member; Hobbs and Honeyford.
Staff: Bonnie Kim (786-7316)
Background: The Dairy Products Commission administers programs to promote dairy products and conduct market research projects. The commission is funded by an assessment on milk products and uses no state general funds.
The commission is composed of nine members appointed by the director of the Department of Agriculture. The commission comprises a dairy producer from each of the seven commission districts, one dealer, one producer-dealer, and the director of the Department of Agriculture. Dairy producers nominate other dairy producers from their district to serve as members of the commission.
Summary of Bill: The Dairy Products Commission may conduct research and education related to economic uses of nutrients produced by dairy farms.
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: The dairy farmers in our state pay for all the commission's programs. We rank ninth in the nation for milk production. This bill will allow the commission to increase consumer confidence in our product quality.
OTHER: This bill has a tight title. We have a few suggestions for alternative language.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Michelle Schilter, Washington Dairy Products Commission.
OTHER: Jay Gordon, WA State Dairy Federation.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.