VETO MESSAGE ON 2ESSB 5988

July 15, 2015

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 204, page 3, lines 31-35, and page 4, lines 1-15, Second Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5988 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to additive transportation funding and appropriations."

Section 204, page 3, lines 31-35, and page 4, lines 1-15, Department of Transportation, Beaver Dams

This proviso creates a complicated process for managing beaver dams on private property that pose a threat to Washington state highways, individual personal property, and public safety. The proposed process would require the Washington State Department of Transportation to notify private property owners of impending threats from beaver dam failure, to produce wildlife management plans, and to provide potential remedies that could create liability for the state. Therefore, I have vetoed Section 204, page 3, lines 31-35, and page 4, lines 1-15.

For these reasons I have vetoed Section 204, page 3, lines 31-35, and page 4, lines 1-15 of Second Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5988.

With the exception of Section 204, page 3, lines 31-35, and page 4, lines 1-15, Second Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill No. 5988 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Jay Inslee
Governor