Washington Administrative Code Title 24 - Apple Commission
Title 24 of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) is exclusively dedicated to the Washington State Apple Commission. This commission is a marketing order established under Washington state law (specifically, Chapter 15.24 RCW) to promote and regulate the apple industry in Washington, which is a major agricultural commodity for the state.
The regulations within WAC Title 24 outline the operational framework of the Apple Commission and its interactions with apple growers and handlers. Here's a breakdown of the key chapters:
Chapter 24-04 - Districts and voting:
This chapter defines the geographical districts within Washington State for the purpose of electing grower members to the Apple Commission.
It specifies how these districts are subdivided (e.g., northern and southern subdivisions of District No. 1, with an addition to Okanogan County subdivision).
It outlines the rules for voting for grower members of the commission within these districts, including residency requirements for elected members.
Chapter 24-12 - Assessments:
This is a crucial chapter as it details the financial mechanism by which the Apple Commission operates.
Amount of Assessments: Specifies the rates at which assessments (fees) are levied on apples sold commercially. These assessments fund the commission's activities, primarily marketing, promotion, and research.
Collection of Accounts: Outlines the procedures for collecting these assessments from apple dealers and handlers based on shipment records.
Referendum Mail Ballot Voting Eligibility: Describes the eligibility criteria and process for growers to vote in referendums related to assessment rates or other commission policies.
Records: Requires apple handlers to maintain records related to their apple shipments for assessment purposes.
Promulgation, Seal, and Effect of Law: General administrative provisions related to the adoption of these rules.
Note: Historically, this chapter included provisions for "apple advertising stamps," but these sections have been repealed, indicating a shift in assessment collection methods.
Chapter 24-16 - Rules of the Washington state apple commission:
This chapter sets forth the general rules governing the internal operations and conduct of the Washington State Apple Commission itself.
It may include policies on meeting procedures, officer duties, committee structures, and ethical guidelines for commissioners and staff.
It includes specific rules for the implementation of promotional hosting by the commission, outlining how funds can be used for marketing and promotional events.
Chapter 24-20 - Washington apple commission public records:
This chapter governs the public's right to access records held by the Washington State Apple Commission, in accordance with Washington's Public Records Act.
It defines "public record," designates a public records officer, outlines the process for making requests, how the commission responds, costs of disclosure, exemptions from disclosure, and procedures for reviewing denials of requests.
In essence, WAC Title 24 provides the regulatory framework that enables the Washington State Apple Commission to effectively promote and support the Washington apple industry, collect necessary funds through assessments, and operate transparently in the public interest.
RELATED Blog
0 comments