Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1203

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  
Report Pass
2/2/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Engrossed
3/4/23  

Caption

Improving the fiscal process by updating accounts administered by the office of financial management, creating new accounts including one for the opioid litigation settlement and one for the receipt of federal funds, and reenacting accounts created in the supplemental budget bill.

Impact

The impact of HB 1203 on state laws primarily revolves around improving the framework for handling funds related to systemic issues like the opioid crisis. By establishing specialized accounts, the bill aims to facilitate better tracking and optimization of financial resources allocated for opioid settlement expenditures and other federal funds. This update represents a proactive approach to fiscal management, aiming to provide clearer guidelines and accountability in the use of public funds, particularly in response to pressing health and social crises.

Summary

House Bill 1203 aims to enhance the fiscal process in the state by updating the accounts managed by the office of financial management. A significant aspect of this bill is the creation of new accounts, specifically designed for managing funds related to opioid litigation settlements, alongside accounts to receive federal funds. The intent of the bill is to streamline fiscal management and ensure a more efficient allocation of resources pertaining to sensitive and critical areas such as opioid-related expenses and federal financial assistance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1203 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, reflected in the voting history which shows a unanimous support with 96 yeas and no nays during its final passage. Lawmakers likely viewed the bill as a necessary update to ensure that the state's financial management systems are equipped to address modern challenges such as the opioid epidemic, demonstrating a commitment to responsible governance and fiscal responsibility. The support from both sides hints at a broad consensus on the need for effective use of funds.

Contention

While there was significant support for the bill, discussions regarding the specifics of how these accounts will operate and the oversight involved may have raised some points of contention among legislators. Concerns may include ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilization of funds allocated for opioid settlements and federal receipts. Although details on opposition or contention were not highlighted in the voting record, typically significant financial legislations spur discussions on governance structures and the management of public resources, indicating a need for ongoing dialogue regarding these issues.

Companion Bills

WA SB5293

Crossfiled Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning accounts.Original: Improving the fiscal process by updating accounts administered by the office of financial management, creating new accounts including one for the opioid litigation settlement and one for the receipt of federal funds, and reenacting accounts created in the supplemental budget bill.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5293

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning accounts.Original: Improving the fiscal process by updating accounts administered by the office of financial management, creating new accounts including one for the opioid litigation settlement and one for the receipt of federal funds, and reenacting accounts created in the supplemental budget bill.

WA SB5732

Creating greater accountability for increasing the supply of housing consistent with growth management.

WA SB6226

Creating reporting requirements for the department of social and health service's office of fraud and accountability.

WA HB1396

Increasing transparency and accountability of the office of corrections ombuds.

WA SB6099

Creating the tribal opioid prevention and treatment account.

WA HB1920

Modifying the public accountancy act.

WA SB5887

Modifying the public accountancy act.

WA SB5294

Transferring dedicated accounts for certain professional licenses to the business and professions account.

WA HB1300

Transferring dedicated accounts for certain professional licenses to the business and professions account.

WA HB1336

Splitting the volunteer firefighters' and reserve officers' relief and pension principal fund into two accounts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.