HB 2081 - DIGEST

     Declares an intent to ensure that there will always be adequate funding to protect the natural areas of the state.  At present, hunters and fishers contribute license fees, but there is still a very heavy reliance on the general fund for the support of nonconsumptive users who require and use hiking trails.

     Declares an intent that nonconsumptive users of our natural environment be given the opportunity to support their recreational interests and use of hiking trails in a meaningful and equitable fashion.

     Establishes the hiking-only trail pass program.  A person using a hiking trail that is designated as a hiking-only trail, located on public land in the state, must have in his or her possession a valid hiking trail pass.

     Provides that a hiking-only trail pass costs two dollars and fifty cents for a one-day pass, and fifteen dollars for an annual pass.  Of that amount, the vendor of the pass may retain fifty cents, and the department of fish and wildlife may retain twenty-five cents.

     Requires revenue received by the department of fish and wildlife to be deposited in the state wildlife fund established in RCW 77.12.170.  The remaining revenue must be deposited into the hiking-only trail pass account, established in this act.