HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                  HB 1172

  Title:Trees and shrub damage.

Brief Description:Changing the calculation for damages for injuries to timber, trees, and shrubs.

Sponsor:Representative Kessler.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES

Meeting Date: January 29, 1999

Bill Analysis Prepared by:  Josh Weiss, Counsel  (786-7129)

Background:A person is liable for treble the amount of damages caused to trees, timber, or shrubs.  This penalty is applicable whether the vegetation is located on private land, on the public right of way in front of a person=s property, or on public property.

Summary of Bill:Provides a minimum statutory judgment of $500 for damage to trees, timber, or shrubs.  Makes technical corrections to existing law.

Appropriation:None.

Fiscal Note:None requested.

Effective Date:Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

  Rulemaking Authority:None.