Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Technology & Economic Development Committee |
HB 1552
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. |
Brief Description: Concerning fostering economic growth in Washington by supporting the in-state production, processing, and distribution of food supply.
Sponsors: Representatives Tarleton, Sells, McBride, Farrell, Slatter, Hudgins, Gregerson, Santos, Peterson, Orwall, Riccelli, Pollet, Dolan, Doglio, Fitzgibbon, Goodman, Macri, Tharinger, Sawyer and Senn.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/1/17
Staff: Kirsten Lee (786-7133).
Background:
The Washington State University Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources (CSANR) provides statewide leadership in research, extension, and resident instruction programs to sustain agriculture and natural resources. The CSANR is engaged in research and development on issues including climate change, energy and water security, and improving technology and management to make agriculture more sustainable.
Summary of Bill:
The CSANR must study the economic development of the state's local food system. The study must identify a 10-year goal for expansion of the state's food capacity by examining the state's capacity to grow a variety of food products, potential market demands, infrastructure needs, institutional capacity to foster economic development of the food sector, changes to financing and environmental planning, and legislative action needed to implement improvements. The study's recommendations must include short and long-term action plans for the Legislature to support and sustain the local food sector in Washington.
The CSANR must establish an advisory committee, consisting of members from farm organizations, food processors and distributors, restauranteurs, food service directors, and local food advocacy organizations, to help provide technical information throughout the study process.
The CSANR must submit a final report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and appropriate legislative committees by November 30, 2018.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.