SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2998

BYRepresentative Belcher

Exempting certain permits and licenses from the definition of a fee.

House Committe on Natural Resource & Parks

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 22, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, DeJarnatt, Kreidler, Owen.

Senate Staff:Ross Antipa (786-7413)

                  February 22, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 22, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Wildlife, the Department of Fisheries, and the State Parks and Recreation Commission charge license fees or campsite rental fees.  The charging of fees results in these agencies being exempt from the recreational immunity statutes (RCW 4.24.210).  The agencies are then liable for lawsuits which arise from people who use department lands for recreational purposes and may suffer injuries.

The departments would like to be shielded from lawsuits under the recreational immunity statutes even though they charge fees for licenses or campsite rental fees.

SUMMARY:

The recreational immunity statute shall include the state fisheries, wildlife, and parks agencies even though they may charge a license or permit fee.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Lee Smith, Department of Wildlife (pro); Nina Carter, Parks Department (pro)