FINAL BILL REPORT
HB 2649
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 168 L 18
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Enhancing the fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities for a person with a disability.
Sponsors: Representatives Barkis, Wilcox, Dolan, Doglio, Nealey, Tarleton and McBride; by request of Department of Fish and Wildlife.
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks
Background:
Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Rifle or Shotgun in a Motor Vehicle or upon an Off-Road Vehicle.
A person is guilty of unlawful possession of a loaded rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle or upon an off-road vehicle if the person carries, transports, conveys, possesses, or controls a loaded rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle or upon an off-road vehicle. This provision does not apply in certain circumstances, including where a person possesses a disabled hunter's permit and complies with all Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) rules concerning hunting by persons with disabilities.
Hunting Opportunities for Persons with a Disability.
The Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) must attempt to enhance the hunting opportunities for persons with a disability. The Commission must authorize the Director of the WDFW to issue disabled hunter permits to persons with a disability.
Americans with Disabilities Act.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law with the purpose of providing a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against persons with disabilities.
Summary:
The exception to the unlawful possession of a loaded rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle provision is modified to apply to a person with a disability designation, rather than to a disabled person who possesses a hunter's permit.
The Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) must enhance the fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational opportunities for a person with a disability. The Commission must authorize the Director of the WDFW to grant a disability designation to a person who meets eligibility criteria established by the Commission by rule. A person granted a disability designation is eligible for reasonable accommodations, as determined by the Director of the WDFW, in order to allow the person to participate in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities.
The Commission must adopt rules governing the conduct of a person with a disability participating in fish, shellfish, and wildlife-related recreational activities, and the conduct of companions permitted to assist such a person.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 97 | 0 | |
Senate | 48 | 0 |
Effective: | June 7, 2018 |