This bill modifies existing laws related to the use of lodging tax revenues and the reporting requirements for the training benefits program administered by the Employment Security Department. It amends RCW 67.28.1816 to specify that lodging tax revenues can be utilized for tourism marketing, special events, and supporting tourism-related facilities. The bill introduces new requirements for applicants seeking these funds, including providing estimates of how the funds will increase travel and submitting applications to a local lodging tax advisory committee in municipalities with populations of 5,000 or more. Additionally, it mandates that recipients report on actual travel outcomes and makes these reports available to the public and relevant committees.

In the second part, the bill amends RCW 50.22.157 to require the Employment Security Department to report on the training benefits program every five years, detailing participant demographics, training outcomes, and administrative costs. The previous requirement for the joint legislative audit and review committee to conduct a thorough review of the training benefits program has been deleted, streamlining the oversight process. The new reporting structure aims to enhance accountability and ensure that the training benefits program effectively meets its objectives.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 67.28.1816, 50.22.157