(1) The department of general administration, through the state purchasing and material control director, shall encourage each state and local agency doing business with the department to purchase Washington fruit, vegetables, and agricultural products when available.

     (2) The department of general administration shall work with the department of agriculture and other interested parties to identify and recommend strategies to increase public purchasing of Washington fruit, vegetables, and agricultural products, and report back orally to the appropriate committees of the legislature in September 2002, and in January 2003.

[2002 c 166 § 2.]

NOTES:

     Findings -- 2002 c 166: "The legislature finds that state-produced agricultural products are of the highest quality, transported the least distance, and are the freshest agricultural products available in Washington state. The legislature further finds that providing improved markets for the richly diversified agricultural commodities produced in Washington is needed to stabilize and enhance the rural and agricultural economies in Washington." [2002 c 166 § 1.]

     Effective date -- 2002 c 166: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 27, 2002]." [2002 c 166 § 3.]