SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1231

BYRepresentatives R. King, S. Wilson, Hargrove and Fuhrman

Modifying procedures regarding disposal of skins and furs.

House Committe on Fisheries & Wildlife

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 16, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

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

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  March 16, 1989

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

BACKGROUND:

The director of the Department of Wildlife may dispose of wildlife that is destroying or injuring real or personal property.  Property owners may remove or destroy animals that are causing damage with the assistance of the department, or department employees may dispose of the animals.  Hot spot hunts are generally those taking place out of season and usual hunting areas.

Skins and furs in the possession of the Department of Wildlife must be sold at public auction at a designated time and place.  The skins and hides from department hot spot hunts or from department trappers are sold through organized auctions.  The number of skins sold and the money received for them do not cover costs of storage, preparation and auction fees.

SUMMARY:

The director of the Department of Wildlife is no longer required to sell skins and furs at public auction.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

All animal part sale funds will go into the wildlife account of the general fund.

Senate Committee - Testified: Lee Smith, Department of Wildlife (pro); John King, Sportsmen's Council (pro)