SB 5353 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

     Finds that Washington state's increasing development pressures have correlated into greater disturbances to archaeological sites and native American burials.  Currently, disturbing an archaeological site without a permit is a class C felony.  However, this penalty is not being applied due to competing demands on law enforcement.

     Declares that new tools are needed to protect the state's heritage.

     Provides that every person who fails to comply with chapter 27.53 RCW or the rules adopted under this chapter may be subjected to a civil penalty, as determined by the director or the director's designee, in an amount of not more than five thousand dollars for every violation.