Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 1082

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Requiring that certain shellfish and seaweed harvest license be available for inspection.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Takko, Curtis, VanDeWege, Hunt, Eickmeyer, Pettigrew, Morrell, Springer, Flannigan and Simpson.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Removes the requirement that shellfish and seaweed licenses must be visible on the person harvesting the shellfish or seaweed.

Hearing Date: 1/15/07

Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).

Background:

A person over the age of 15 must purchase a personal use shellfish and seaweed license from the Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) prior to harvesting either shellfish or seaweed from state waters or from national park beaches [RCW 77.32.520(1)]. The license costs $7 for residents of Washington and $20 for residents of other states or countries. Seniors may purchase a license for $5.

Likewise, a person interested in harvesting razor clams for personal use must purchase a razor clam license [RCW 77.32.520(2)]. The cost of a one-day razor clam license is $5.50 for state residents, and $11 for individuals that are not residents of Washington. A three-day razor clam license is also available for an additional cost.

The license holder is required to display the appropriate license in a visible manner on his or her person while actually engaged in the act of harvesting shellfish, razor clams, or seaweed [RCW 77.32.520(6)].

Summary of Bill:

The requirement that a harvester of shellfish, razor clams, or seaweed must display the actual license on his or her person is removed. The harvester must still be in possession of an appropriate license and make the license available for inspection when requested to do so.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.