SENATE BILL REPORT

                            HB 2678

                    AS OF FEBRUARY 15, 1994

Brief Description:  Expediting the merger of the departments of fisheries and wildlife.

SPONSORS: Representatives Quall, Reams, King, Anderson, Jones, Kessler and Conway; by request of Governor Lowry

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786‑7413)

Hearing Dates:  February 23, 1994

BACKGROUND:

In 1993, the Legislature enacted legislation merging the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Wildlife, effective July 1, 1994.  The merger plan was completed in November of 1993.  According to the Governor's Office, the merger of the two departments is ready to proceed.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Fisheries and the Department of Wildlife are merged effective March 1, 1994.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on March 1, 1994.