SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1027

BYRepresentatives R. King,  Sayan, S. Wilson, Haugen, Basich and Spanel; by request of Department of Fisheries

Clarifying the authority of the director of fisheries.

House Committe on Fisheries & Wildlife

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 16, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Barr, Bauer, Benitz, Kreidler, Owen, Patterson.

Senate Staff:John Korvell (786-7473)

                  March 16, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, MARCH 16, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The Director of the Department of Fisheries currently has the authority to establish rules consistent with those set by the federal government, commissions, and conventions.  Two of these are the International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission and the 1930 Canadian/United States convention for the protection and preservation of the Fraser River system's sockeye.

There have been changes in treaties and conventions superseding those mentioned in current statutes.  There is a need to update these and to include those bodies of growing importance so that the director can act accordingly.

SUMMARY:

The Director of the Department of Fisheries is authorized to establish rules consistent with the International Pacific Halibut Commission and the 1985 Canadian/United States Salmon Interception Treaty.  This 1985 treaty replaces the 1930 Fraser River system convention and the International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission is replaced with the Pacific Salmon Commission.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Loren Stern, WDF (for); Ray Nelson, concerned citizen (against)