HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 1925
As Reported By House Committee On:
Fisheries & Wildlife
Title: An act relating to registration of persons carrying passengers for hire on whitewater river sections.
Brief Description: Requiring registration of persons carrying passengers for hire on whitewater river sections.
Sponsors: Representatives Orr, Pruitt and King.
Brief History:
Reported by House Committee on:
Fisheries & Wildlife, March 2, 1993, DPA.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FISHERIES & WILDLIFE
Majority Report: Do pass as amended. Signed by 8 members: Representatives King, Chair; Orr, Vice Chair; Fuhrman, Ranking Minority Member; Sehlin, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Basich; Foreman; Lemmon; and Scott.
Staff: Keitlyn Watson (786-7310).
Background: Under current law, persons carrying passengers for hire on whitewater river sections in the state may register with the Department of Licensing. A registration requires evidence of at least $300,000 per claim liability insurance coverage, and a certification that the insurance will be maintained for at least one year. In addition, the person must have a Red Cross standard first aid card, and certain safety equipment.
Summary of Amended Bill: Persons carrying passengers for hire on whitewater river sections must register with the Department of Licensing. The registration requires evidence of $300,000 per person liability insurance coverage, and a certification that the insurance will be maintained for at least one year.
Amended Bill Compared to Original Bill: Liability insurance coverage requirements are changed from $300,000 per claim to $300,000 per person.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date of Amended Bill: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Testimony For: It is a matter of concern that current law does not require registration. The bill changes only one word and ensures greater safety for users of Washington whitewater river guides.
Testimony Against: None.
Witnesses: Representative Orr, prime sponsor (pro).