Brief Description: Authorizing the fish and wildlife commission to adopt freshwater-specific rules.

Sponsors: Representative Nixon.

Hearing Date: 2/14/03

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7157).

Background:

The Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) has the authority to adopt permanent or emergency rules by a resolution approved by a majority of its members. Rules adopted by the Commission must be in conformance with RCW 34.05 (Administrative Procedures Act). The Commission also has specific authority to adopt, amend, or repeal rules specifying the times and geographic areas where fish may be taken or possessed.

Summary of Bill:

The Commission is authorized to adopt freshwater specific rules for recreational fishing on all or portions of freshwater bodies. Before reauthorizing any freshwater specific rule the Commission must hold at least one public hearing. Freshwater rules adopted after June 30, 2003 expire no later than four years after their effective date unless they are amended, repealed or reauthorized by the Commission. Freshwater rules adopted before June 30, 2003 expire unless reauthorized subject to the following schedule:

Rules pertaining to water bodies east of the crest of the Cascade range expire March 31, 2005;

Rules pertaining to water bodies west of the crest of the Cascade range expire March 31, 2007.

Beginning in 2008, the Commission must review at least 25% of the state's freshwater rules annually.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 5, 2003.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.