HB 1259

Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS

Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee

HB 1259

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: Allowing the parks and recreation commission to deny or revoke the issuance of a park pass in certain circumstances.

Sponsors: Representatives B. Sullivan, Kretz, Blake and Moeller; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.

Brief Summary of Bill

Permits the State Parks and Recreation Commission with the authority to deny or revoke a parks pass if there is cause.

Permits the State Parks and Recreation Commission to enter into agreements for reciprocal discounted programs with other outdoor recreation agencies.

Hearing Date: 2/15/07

Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).

Background:

The State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) may charge fees for the use of campsites located at state parks. The rate of the fee is set by the Commission. However, regardless of the fee set, there are three categories of individuals who are eligible to receive a discounted rate for camping: seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans with service-related disabilities.

Seniors and people with disabilities are eligible for a pass that entitles them to a 50 percent discount in campsite rental fees. Veterans with a service-related disability are entitled to a pass that provides for the free use of any campsite.

Individuals who meet the requirements for the discounted passes must be given a pass. The passes are valid until surrendered. The Commission may only compel the surrender of a pass if the holder is found to no longer meet the eligibility requirements for the pass.

Summary of Bill:

The Commission is provided with the authority to deny or revoke a parks pass if there is cause. The Commission may find cause if the pass holder or applicant:

Is not a Washington resident;
Has violated laws or park rules that resulted in an eviction from a park;
Has intimidated, obstructed, or assaulted a park employee or volunteer;
Has used the pass in a fraudulent manner;
Provided false information on the application;
Refuses to display the pass when requested; or
Fails to provide current eligibility requirement information.

The Commission is also provided with the authority to enter into agreements for reciprocal discounted programs with other outdoor recreation agencies.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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