Brief Description: Reestablishing the state parks and outdoor recreation funding task force.

Sponsors: Representatives McIntire, Ericksen, Armstrong, Dunshee, Cooper, Anderson, O'Brien, Haigh, Kenney, Lantz, McDermott and Chase.

Hearing Date: 1/28/03

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7157).

Background:

The State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Funding Task Force was created in the 2002 Supplemental Operating Budget, Chapter 371, Laws of 2002. The budget directed the Task Force to prepare recommendations for improving the operation of state parks and outdoor recreation programs and to secure adequate funding on a permanent basis to support the needs of state parks and outdoor recreation programs. The Task Force developed several recommendations for the legislature's consideration, including a legislative proposal to continue the work of the State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Funding Task Force.

Summary of Bill:

The State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Funding Task Force is reestablished. The Task Force consists of fifteen members, four members each from the Senate and House of Representatives, three members appointed by the Governor, one member appointed by the Commissioner of Public Lands, one member appointed by the Chair of the Fish and Wildlife Commission one member appointed by the chair of the State Parks and Recreation Commission, and one member appointed by the Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation.

The Task Force must evaluate outdoor recreation sites and programs managed by the State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Natural Resources. The Task Force is directed to make recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2004 identifying priorities for managing state recreation lands and long-term stable funding sources to support those activities.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

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