Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 2446

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.

Brief Description: Regarding long-term noxious weed management on land newly acquired by the fish and wildlife commission.

Sponsors: Representatives Kretz, Williams, McCune, Taylor, Chandler, Haler, Schmick and Short.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the Fish and Wildlife Commission to develop, before making a real estate purchase, long-term noxious weed management plans for any parcels of undeveloped real estate that it is considering for purchase.

Hearing Date: 1/12/10

Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).

Background:

The Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) has the authority to acquire various property rights in the name of the state for purposes consistent with the other legislative authorities of the Commission. The Commission may acquire lands, buildings, water rights, rights-of-way, and other property through gift, lease, condemnation, or purchase from a willing seller.

Summary of Bill:

The Commission must develop a long-term noxious weed management plan for any parcel of undeveloped real estate that it is considering for purchase. No money may be released for the purchase of undeveloped property by the Commission unless the weed management plan has been approved by the Commission prior to the closing date of the sale.

The long-term noxious weed management plan must include the identification of a funding mechanism that allows for the plan to be implemented. The funding may take the form of a bond or other financial guarantee backed by the federal government, a local government, or charitable donations from the private sector, non-profit organizations, or citizens. However, the identified funding mechanism may not rely on future legislative appropriations.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.