HB 2540

SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2540

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.

As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation, February 20, 2008

Title: An act relating to the advisory committee representing the interests of hunters and fishers with disabilities.

Brief Description: Regarding the advisory committee that represents the interest of hunters and fishers with disabilities.

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Jacobsen, Chair; Hatfield, Vice Chair; Morton, Ranking Minority Member; Rockefeller, Spanel and Stevens.

Background: In 2001 the Legislature established an advisory committee to the Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) comprised of seven individuals with disabilities appointed by the Commission to generally represent the interests of hunters and fishers with disabilities. These interests include special hunts, modified sporting equipment, access to public lands, and increased hunting and fishing opportunities.

The advisory committee was originally set to terminate on July 1, 2005, and was extended three additional years until July 1, 2008. The Commission was required to submit a report to the Legislature in 2007 detailing the effectiveness of the advisory committee and recommending if the advisory committee should be continued or modified.

In its report to the Legislature, the Commission stated that the advisory committee presented information that led to rule making decisions that benefit the community of disabled hunters, fishers, and wildlife viewers. The Commission recommended that the advisory committee be extended until July 1, 2011.

Summary of Bill: The advisory committee to the Commission that represents the interests of hunters and fishers with disabilities is changed from a pilot project into a permanent entity. The Commission must present a report to the appropriate legislative committees every four years beginning December 1, 2011, concerning the effectiveness of the advisory committee.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill provides outdoor opportunities for everyone, especially those who may be physically challenged. The advisory committee has made a number of recommendations to the Fish and Wildlife Commission in the last six years, all of which have been accepted. Additionally, the committee has worked with DFW to prepare the reports to the Legislature about the work of the committee. Some people cannot physically enjoy outdoor activities, and this program helps find a way to include those individuals. The advisory committee provides a mechanism for educating the DFW about the needs and concerns of individuals with disabilities.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Warnick, prime sponsor; Bill Vincent, Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee to Persons with Disabilities; Dennis Clay, citizen.