Brief Description: Creating the corps of discovery pass.

Sponsors: Representatives Wallace, Ericksen, Grant, Armstrong, Dunshee, Cooper, Moeller, Haigh, Lantz and Rockefeller.

Hearing Date: 1/28/03

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7157).

Background:

In response to budget reductions in the 2002 supplemental operating budget, the State Parks and Recreation Commission canceled leases to certain parks owned by the Army Corps of Engineers and operated by State Parks under lease agreements. Four parks located along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, including Chief Timothy, Lyons Ferry, Central Ferry and Crow Butte State Parks, were recently closed by the Army Corps of Engineers.

The State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Funding Task Force was created in the 2002 Supplemental Operating Budget, Chapter 371, Laws of 2002. The budget directed the Task Force to prepare recommendations for improving the operation of state parks and outdoor recreation programs and to secure adequate funding on a permanent basis to support the needs of state parks and outdoor recreation programs. The Task Force developed several recommendations for the legislature's consideration, including a legislative proposal to develop a Corps of Discovery Pass for sites located along the Lewis and Clark Trail.

Summary of Bill:

The State Parks and Recreation Commission may develop a Corps of Discovery Pass that visitors may purchase in lieu of parking fees charged at designated site along the Lewis and Clark Trail. The Commission may seek private assistance with marketing and merchandising of the pass. Proceeds from the pass must be deposited in the State Parks Renewal and Stewardship Account and be used for operation and maintenance of state parks located along the Lewis and Clark Trail.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 20, 2003.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.