Washington Administrative Code Title 244 - Hardwoods Commission
Here’s a refined overview of WAC Title 244 – Hardwoods Commission, primarily codified in Chapter 244‑12:
🌲 1. Purpose and Authority
WAC 244‑12‑020 defines the commission’s mission:
Promote retention, expansion, and attraction of hardwood-related industries in Washington
Facilitate research, product/market development, financial support programs, and collaboration with public agencies (e.g., DNR)
(law.cornell.edu)
The commission operates under statutory authority from Chapter 15.74 RCW, effective July 1, 1991.
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
2. Structure & Membership
WAC 244‑12‑040 outlines governance:
Seven-member commission comprised of hardwood industry professionals
Eligibility: Washington residents, ≥ 21 years old, with at least 5 years in the hardwood industry, deriving substantial income from it
No more than one member can represent the same employer
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
Terms: 4 years each; staggered initial terms so positions expire between 1992–1994
Vacancies filled by the commission itself
Quorum & Compensation: Five members needed for decisions; no member receives salary
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
3. Powers & Meetings
Under WAC 244‑12‑040:
Authority to adopt technical/admin rules, hire staff, maintain finances, bond the treasurer, budget, and keep records
Required meetings: regularly at least semi-annually, plus an annual meeting with budget reporting
Open meeting compliance and public notice mandated
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
4. Assessments & Reporting
WAC 244‑12‑050 – ‑060 govern assessments:
Quarterly assessment tiers based on volume (tonnage or Scribner board feet), ranging from $150 (5–7.5k tons) up to $6,000 (175–250k tons)
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
Processors under 5k tons/quarter exempt
Quarterly reporting and payments due within 45 days after the quarter’s end
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
5. Liability & Legal Structure
WAC 244‑12‑070 – ‑090 provide that:
The commission can enter contracts and incur liabilities similar to a corporation
Its members and agents are shielded from personal liability, barring dishonesty or crime
Invalid provisions can be severed without affecting the remainder
(lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
✅ In Summary
Title 244 – Chapter 244‑12:
| Focus Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Grow and support WA hardwood industry |
| Commission Structure | 7 industry members, 4‑year terms, open meetings |
| Powers | Financial management, rulemaking, staffing |
| Assessments | Tiered quarterly fees; reporting deadlines |
| Legal | Commissionable liabilities; personal immunity |
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