SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 6046

                            AS OF JANUARY 21, 1992

Brief Description:  Consolidating fish and wildlife enforcement personnel into the Washington state patrol.

SPONSORS: Senators L. Smith and Anderson

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786‑7413)

Hearing Dates: January 28, 1992

BACKGROUND:

Both the Departments of Fisheries and Wildlife maintain enforcement divisions within each agency.  Other states, such as Oregon, have a single enforcement entity within the State Patrol which enforces fish and wildlife laws.

Consolidation of Fisheries' patrol officers and Wildlife agents into the State Patrol may provide opportunities for greater efficiencies and improved resource protection.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Fisheries' patrol officers and Department of Wildlife's agents are transferred into the Washington State Patrol effective July 1, 1993.  The Washington State Patrol is given the authority to enforce the fisheries and wildlife codes.  Fisheries' patrol officers or Wildlife's agents have the option to remain in their present retirement system or to transfer to the State Patrol retirement system upon being commissioned State Patrol officers.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested January 21, 1992