AWC Legislative Bulletin - Volume 31, No. 5
February 8, 2008  (Plain Text Version)

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In this issue:
What You Need to Know Now!
From the Director: Legislature Approaches First "Cutoff" Tapings Legislation "Resurrected"
Energy & Telecommunications
Environment & Water
General Local Government
Infrastructure, Transportation & Economic Development
Land Use & Housing
Law & Justice
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From the Director: Legislature Approaches First "Cutoff" Tapings Legislation "Resurrected"

By Stan Finkelstein, AWC Executive Director

As this issue of the Bulletin goes to press, the Legislature is rapidly approaching its first "cutoff".

Cutoffs are part of the joint House and Senate rules, and define the timetable for completion of the various stages of the legislative process, leading up to a timely adjournment on or before the 60 day constitutionally limited even-year session.

The first cutoff, officially at 5 pm on February 8, specifies that all legislation that has not cleared the policy committee in the house of origin (House or Senate) is officially "dead". For transportation and fiscal legislation the cutoff is Tuesday, February 12.

For lobbyists, reaching a cutoff often enables them to cast a sigh of relief as adverse legislation goes by the wayside. Unfortunately, cutoffs also signal the demise of positive legislation. As we approach the February 8 cutoff, we’ve been able to derail a number of adverse measures, but have also "lost" some good proposals.

Taping of Executive Sessions Resurrected

A major AWC concern throughout the session has been the legislation introduced at the request of the Attorney General and the State Auditor requiring the taping of all executive sessions. What appears to be the impetus behind this measure has been allegations that the Port of Seattle commissioners had an executive session addressing post-retirement compensation for their former executive director, and that such subject matter was beyond the authorized purposes of an executive session.

While the legislation has been improved since first discussed prior to the Legislature convening, it still requires taping and that such tapes be retained for at least two years. AWC believes the proposed legislation would stifle candid conversation, violate attorney client confidentiality, and cause significant administrative problems for smaller jurisdictions.

The unfortunate news is that while this legislation (HB 3292), was technically "dead" when the House State Government and Tribal Affairs Committee did not advance the bill during their last scheduled meeting before the cutoff this past Tuesday, under pressure from House Democratic and Republican leaders a follow-up meeting was called and the measure was approved Thursday evening. The bill may be acted upon at any time by the full House.

City officials are strongly urged to contact their legislators and urge a "no" vote on HB 3292. Please make the call, send an email or write a letter today to all of your legislators. They must hear directly from home that cities strongly oppose this bill. Thanks!!!