The bill aims to enhance Washington's agricultural pest and disease response by establishing a dedicated funding mechanism and improving emergency response protocols. It creates the Agricultural Pest and Disease Response Account within the state treasury, which will receive funds from various sources, including legislative appropriations and transfers from the general fund during emergencies. The account is intended to support activities that address emerging agricultural threats, ensuring that the state can quickly respond to pest and disease challenges that threaten public health, the environment, and the agricultural economy.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to refine the process for declaring emergencies related to agricultural pests and diseases. It updates the composition of advisory committees to include a broader range of stakeholders, such as representatives from affected agricultural industries, local governments, and federally recognized tribes. The bill also mandates that the director of agriculture report on emergency measures every 60 days, ensuring ongoing evaluation and transparency in the response efforts. Overall, the legislation seeks to bolster the state's capacity to manage agricultural threats effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 17.24.171
Substitute Bill: 17.24.171