Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Local Government Committee |
SB 5122
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 fire commissioner compensation.
Sponsors: Senators Takko and Rivers.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 3/14/17
Staff: Yvonne Walker (786-7841).
Background:
A fire protection district (district) is a type of special purpose district, typically located in an unincorporated area, with responsibility to provide fire prevention and suppression services and emergency medical response services. A district has the powers and authorities of a municipal corporation.
Generally, districts are generally managed by a board composed of three to seven commissioners. The number of commissioners can vary depending upon the number of commissioner districts, the number of full-time paid personnel employed at the fire department, the annual budget of a district, and whether a majority of the voters in the district have approved an increase in board membership. Commissioners are elected at-large and serve staggered six-year terms.
Each commissioner may receive up to $104 per day for time spent in actual attendance at official meetings of the board or in performance of other services or duties on behalf of the district. Annual compensation may not exceed $9,984. In addition, each commissioner may receive reimbursement for expenses incurred while engaged in district business.
The Office of Financial Management (OFM) must adjust the compensation amounts for inflation every five years, beginning July 1, 2008. In 2013 the OFM adjusted the amount to $114 per day with an annual compensation limit of $10,944. The adjustments are published in the Washington State Register, but are not reflected in statute. The next adjustment is slated to occur on July 1, 2018.
Summary of Bill:
The date that the OFM must adjust the dollar threshold for fire commissioners' compensation amounts due to inflation is changed. The OFM must adjust commissioners' compensation amounts every five years beginning on January 1, 2019 (instead of July 1, 2008).
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.