SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5781
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 of February 16, 2009
Title: An act relating to the applicability of open range laws on public lands.
Brief Description: Regarding open range laws on public land.
Sponsors: Senators Morton and Stevens.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation: 2/18/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, OCEAN & RECREATION |
Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)
Background: In general, a county legislative authority may designate areas of the county as stock-restricted areas. A person who allows livestock to run at large within a stock-restricted area without permission of the landowner is subject to a misdemeanor. Any area that is not stock-restricted is an open range area in which livestock may run at large.
However, a person must have written permission from the United States or from the state of Washington to allow livestock to run at large on federal or state lands.
Summary of Bill: On lands managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, a person must have written permission to allow livestock to run at large only in (1) a stock-restricted area or (2) areas that are adequately fenced to prevent livestock from running at large.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested February 14, 2009.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.