| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Capital Budget Committee | |
HB 2395
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: Regarding leasing and development rights on state lands.
Sponsors: Representatives Fromhold and McDonald.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/29/07
Staff: Nona Snell (786-7153).
Background:
Upon Washington State's admission to the United States in 1889, the federal government
provided it with approximately 3.2 million acres of land to support public institutions, including
common schools, public buildings, and higher education. Washington has retained the majority
of these granted lands and now manages about 2.25 million federally granted acres. The state
also manages approximately 626,000 acres of state forest lands, beneficiaries of which include
counties and junior taxing districts.
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages these trust lands for the state. They
generate revenue through the sales of timber and forest products and through leases.
The DNR has the authority to lease state lands for purposes including commercial, industrial,
residential, agricultural, and recreational uses in order to obtain a fair market rental return to the
state or appropriate trust. The length of the lease is dependent upon its purpose.
Summary of Bill:
The DNR may lease land and development rights on state lands held for the benefit of the
common schools to public agencies for terms not to exceed 99 years. The DNR may enter into
leases with public agencies through negotiations, which may allow for a lump sum payment for
the entire lease term at the beginning of the lease. The leases may include provisions for
renewal.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.