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Bill

SB 6170

Concerning legislative oversight of moneys received from enforcement actions.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Mullet and 2 co-sponsors

SB 6170 requires Washington state agencies to obtain legislative oversight and approval for spending money from enforcement actions and settlements rather than using such funds at agency discretion.

First reading, referred to State Government & Elections.
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Bill Summary · SB 6170

Legislative bill overview

SB 6170 establishes legislative oversight procedures for state agencies' use of money received from enforcement actions, settlements, and penalties. The bill requires agencies to report to the Legislature on these funds and potentially restricts how agencies can spend settlement proceeds without explicit legislative approval.

Why is this important

Enforcement action settlements and penalties can generate substantial unrestricted revenue that agencies currently control independently. This bill addresses whether such funds should remain under executive discretion or require legislative review, affecting state budget transparency and democratic accountability over agency spending priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive versus legislative power: Debate over whether agencies need flexibility to respond quickly to enforcement opportunities or whether all significant funds require legislative pre-approval
  • Budget process efficiency: Disagreement on whether mandatory legislative review creates bureaucratic delays that undermine agency effectiveness in negotiating settlements
  • Definition scope: Unclear which enforcement actions trigger oversight requirements—minor violations versus major settlements could be treated very differently

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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