OLYMPIA — The Washington State Beef Commission will soon be improving the transparency of its financial operation and gaining a clearer picture on its overall direction thanks to a bill sponsored by 13th Legislative District Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, that was recently signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee.

House Bill 2073 came about via meetings of farmers, ranchers and beef industry officials over the last year to improve the operation of the Washington Beef Commission. The legislation requires the commission to create and submit a concise and detailed budget and expenditure report to the legislature at the end of the each fiscal year.

“The Beef Commission has done great work. This legislation just ensures the Commission is using their funds efficiently and effectively by requiring some financial transparency and accountability,” Dent said. “It also provides clarity in the RCWs (Revised Code of Washington) by outlining the commission’s priorities and responsibilities.”

The commission includes nine commissioners, as well as the director of the state Department of Agriculture, who is tasked with appointing the other eight members, each of whom serves a three-year term. Under the new law, which goes into effect July 22, the commission will be focusing on promoting the beef industry, engaging in health and safety research and education, providing support to the beef industry and maintaining current efforts to increase overall beef consumption.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.