HB 2957

Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 2957

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 private business activities in state-owned housing provided by the department of fish and wildlife or the parks and recreation commission.

Sponsors: Representatives Hunt, Armstrong, Appleton, Dickerson, VanDeWege and Chase; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.

Brief Summary of Bill

Authorizes the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Parks and Recreation Commission to approve private business activity in state-owned housing.

Hearing Date: 1/30/08

Staff: Colleen Kerr (786-7168).

Background:

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
In addition to regulating hunting and fishing, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) manages more than 640 animal species that range from butterflies to elk. The WDFW also manages approximately 150 species of fish and shellfish ranging from clams to salmon.

The WDFW manages approximately 800,000 acres that provide habitat and migration routes to wild species as well as a variety of recreational opportunities to the state's citizens. It also operates numerous boat ramps and other access areas to Washington's wild places.

In addition, the WDFW enforces habitat protection laws, removes wild animals such as cougars and bears when they threaten humans, and arrests poachers. Other programs teach young people to protect the environment and to fish and hunt safely.

Parks and Recreation Commission
According to its mission, "The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) acquires, operates, enhances and protects a diverse system of recreational, cultural, historical and natural sites. The Commission fosters outdoor recreation and education statewide to provide enjoyment and enrichment for all and a valued legacy to future generations."
The Washington state park system includes 120 developed parks, recreation programs, trails, boating safety and winter recreation. The Commission is governed by a board of seven volunteer citizens appointed by the Governor. Commission members serve for staggered, six-year terms, setting public policy and guiding the agency.

Summary of Bill:

The WDFW and the Commission may approve private business activity in state-owned housing provided that:

the WDFW and the Commission adopt a private business activity policy approved by the Executive Ethics Board;
private business activity by the resident state employee is authorized only when the employee is off-duty or by the employee's spouse who is also approved for residency;
the private business activity policy does not allow business activity that negatively impacts the agency's operations;
the private business activity complies with all other local, state, and federal laws; and
approvals for the private business activity are in writing.

A state employee or the employee's spouse who is in compliance with these requirements is not in violation of RCW 42.52.070 or 42.52.160.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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