Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Housing, Community Development & Veterans Committee

SSB 6670

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: Encouraging access to state parks through cooperative programs with libraries.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks (originally sponsored by Senators Billig, Van De Wege, Salomon, Schoesler, Conway and Saldaña).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

  • Requires the State Parks and Recreation Commission to provide two Discover Passes each calendar year to libraries that provide the pass on a loan basis to their patrons.

Hearing Date: 2/21/20

Staff: Serena Dolly (786-7150).

Background:

The Discover Pass is an annual pass that allows a vehicle to access state recreation lands owned by the State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks), the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Natural Resources. The cost of a Discover Pass is $30. The annual Discover Pass is transferrable between two vehicles. The cost of a day-use permit, which serves the same function as the annual pass but is only valid for one calendar day, is $10.

Summary of Bill:

State Parks must provide at least two Discover Passes, once each calendar year, to any library that submits a request. State Parks is not required to replace any Discover Pass that is lost or not returned. State Parks should prioritize the distribution of any additional Discover Passes to libraries that also check out outdoor equipment, such as backpacks, binoculars, field guides, and other equipment that will enhance the patron's outdoor experience.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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