SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6193

As of January 27, 2014

Title: An act relating to migratory bird-related provisions.

Brief Description: Modifying provisions of the code that deal with migratory birds.

Sponsors: Senator Pearson.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Parks: 1/23/14.

Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)

Background: Migratory Bird Permits, Stamps, and Artwork. In order to hunt for migratory birds, a person must have a small game hunting license and a supplemental migratory bird permit. The statutory fee for the migratory bird permit is $15.

Based on hunter survey results, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) determines the relative proportion of waterfowl and non-waterfowl migratory bird hunters. The portion of permit revenue from waterfowl hunters is used for migratory waterfowl habitat acquisition and development, and for enhancement, protection, and propagation of migratory waterfowl. The portion of revenue from non-waterfowl migratory bird hunters is used for the same project types benefitting non-waterfowl migratory birds.

Current law directs DFW to annually select a migratory bird stamp design and administer a program to sell collector prints and artwork using the design. Total print and artwork revenue must be deposited in the State Wildlife Account. The costs of production and marketing may be paid from the total, but DFW must use the net proceeds to contract for the development of waterfowl propagation projects that relate to the Pacific flyway. Currently, DFW contracts with a nonprofit organization for the selection of the stamp and sale of collector prints and artwork.

When DFW acquires property using migratory permit revenues, it must allow the general public reasonable access to the property.

Relevant 2011 Legislation. In 2011 the Legislature passed two separate bills amending statutes that relate to migratory bird permits, stamps, and artwork.

One 2011 bill focused on fish and wildlife licensing fees. The fee bill changed the name of the document required to hunt migratory birds from a migratory bird stamp or validation to a permit, but did not make corresponding changes to the statues relating to stamps and artwork.

A second 2011 bill addressed various state boards and commissions. This bill eliminated the use of a committee to select a migratory bird stamp design and administer the program to sell collector prints and artwork using the design. Instead, those functions were assigned to DFW. Additionally, the bill eliminated an annual audit requirement.

Summary of Bill: A biennial audit requirement is established relating to migratory bird permit revenue, which must be conducted by the State Auditor on a biennial basis.

Consumptive users are listed as an example of members of the general public to which DFW must provide access to property acquired through migratory bird permit funds.

DFW is provided specific authority to contract for the selection of a migratory bird stamp design, and administration of the program to sell collector prints and artwork using the design. Production and marketing costs may be paid from total sales, with the remaining amount used to contract for the development of waterfowl propagation projects that relate to the Pacific flyway.

Terms that relate to migratory bird permits, stamps, and artwork are aligned. Technical and organizational changes are made.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 20, 2014.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The original legislation contained an annual audit requirement, which was eliminated through later legislation. The audit function was a crucial component of the original bill. This bill would increase transparency in government and allow for public oversight. This bill would make no policy changes. Furthermore, this bill would allow greater oversight and insight into the DFW, which can only be to the public's benefit.

Persons Testifying: PRO: David Ware, DFW; Rob Kavanaugh, citizen.