19 



One recent article characterized the proposed changes in Bonneville's structure 

 under incorporation as "modest" On the other hand, another article indicated 

 that The change would require passage of legislation in Congress, basically 

 replacing the 1980 Northwest Power Act" Tlie truth may very well £Edl somewhere 

 in between these two interpretations. At the extreme, this new corporation could 

 necessitate rewriting the Northwest Power Act. Ibis possibility opens up a ntunber 

 of important regional issues. Therefore, the Council believes that any legislation to 

 create a Bonneville Corporation should be carefully developed and fiilly debated m 

 the region. If we can reach agreement in the region, we will have a better chance of 

 peissing legislation vdiich genuinely benefits the Northwest 



To this end. the Council is working with the offices of the ^jvemors of the four 

 Northwest states to identify the implications of Bonneville as a government 

 corporation and the possible alternatives \irtiich cotdd still provide Bonneville with 

 increased flexibility and efficiency, which everyone supports. The issues have 

 changed since 1980. but we think our governors want no less influence with 

 Bonneville. We will, of course, keep Congress informed of our wort 



AgEiin. Chairman DeFeizio and committee members, I want to thank 5rou for the 

 opportunity to talk with you this morning. Also, on behalf of the entire region. I 

 want to thank you for the time gmd attention you've given this task force as it 

 looks at ways to improve one of the most important emd powerful institutions in 

 the Northwest 



1 would be pleased to answer any of your questions. 



p v.ai\wwAa)o>wDC\B(ynaajx>c 



10 



