SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5319
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. |
As of February 6, 2013
Title: An act relating to access to state recreation lands by disabled veterans.
Brief Description: Regarding access to state recreation lands by disabled veterans.
Sponsors: Senators Bailey, Padden, Becker and Honeyford.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Parks: 2/05/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS |
Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)
Background: Discover Pass Program Generally. During the 2011 regular session, the Legislature passed 2SSB 5622 which generally requires an annual Discover Pass or day-use permit for motor vehicle access to recreation lands managed by the State Parks & Recreation Commission (State Parks), the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and the Department of Fish & Wildlife (DFW). The legislation also created the DFW Vehicle Access Pass, which is issued along with certain hunting and fishing licenses and allows access to DFW managed lands.
Discover Pass Exemptions. A Discover Pass or day-use permit is not required in certain circumstances. These include general exemptions such as parking at designated short term parking areas or entry onto state lands consistent with a written authorization such as a lease or contract.
The statutorily created State Parks pass program provides a series of partial Discover Pass exemptions. That is, those who qualify for a senior citizen's pass, a disability pass, a lifetime veteran's disability pass, or a foster home pass receive free or discounted camping and free access to State Parks. More specifically, any Washington resident who is a veteran and has a service-connected disability of at least 30 percent can receive a lifetime veteran's disability pass, entitling the veteran to free use of any campsite and free admission to any state park.
Summary of Bill: A person with a lifetime veteran's disability pass issued by State Parks is entitled to a complimentary Discover Pass. Any citation for failure to comply with the Discover Pass requirement must be waived if an individual demonstrates that they have a lifetime veteran's disability pass or are eligible for one.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: CON: Without any exceptions, we cannot afford to make any revenue cuts to parks funding.
OTHER: The state has a long history of supporting access to recreation for disabled veterans, and its intent is a good one. The financial offset that this bill creates should be considered. This legislation may not comply with section 501 of the Americans with Disabilities Act as the bill seems to differentiate between disabled citizens.
Persons Testifying: CON: Brian Yearout, WA Federation of State Employees.
OTHER: Daniel Farber, WA State Parks; Greg Schirato, DFW; Mark Mauren, DNR; James King, Citizens for Parks and Recreation.