FINAL BILL REPORT

HCR 4408

BYRepresentatives Cantwell, Moyer, Wineberry, P. King, Nelson, Rasmussen and Walk

Recommending adoption of the Washington State Economic Development Board reports by the legislature.

House Committe on Trade & Economic Development

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

AS PASSED LEGISLATURE

BACKGROUND:

The Washington State Economic Development Board was established by the Legislature in 1985.  The purpose of the board was to create a long-term economic development strategy for the state.

The board published five reports:  (1) Washington's Challenges and Opportunities in the Global Economy; (2) The Washington State Economy: An Assessment of Its Strengths and Weaknesses;  (3) Washington's Distressed Areas: Recommendations for Economic Recovery; (4) Citizens Choose the Future; and (5) Washington Works Worldwide.

The board conducted public hearings throughout the state.  In its fifth and final report, the board summarized its findings and made recommendations for a long-term economic development strategy.

The board's recommendations include: (1) developing a highly educated, multi-skilled, and flexible workforce; (2) building local capacity; (3) protecting the northwest environment; (4) investing in innovation; (5) reforming the tax structure for competitiveness; (6) reshaping the regulatory environment; (7) commercializing research and development; (8) linking Washington with the world; (9) maintaining and improving basic infrastructure; and (10) creating an independent council to oversee strategy.

SUMMARY:

The recommendations of the Washington State Economic Development Board regarding a long-term economic development strategy are accepted by the Legislature.

The Governor is asked to provide leadership in the implementation of the board's recommendations by:  (1) requesting state agencies to consider the recommendations in their planning and other activities, and (2) conducting an annual economic summit that focuses on the ongoing activities necessary to implement the board's recommendations.  Leaders of the executive and legislative branches and private sector businesses are the suggested focus of the economic summit.

The Legislature, particularly leadership and the committee chairs, are encouraged to assist and evaluate the executive branch in implementing the board's recommendations.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House

      Senate    46     0 (Senate amended)

      House 97   0 (House concurred)!np