SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5044
BYSenators Sutherland, Owen, Metcalf, Bauer, Benitz and Patterson; by request of Department of Fisheries
Changing requests for fishing licenses.
Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources
Senate Hearing Date(s):
Senate Staff:John Korvell (786-7473)
AS OF JANUARY 18, 1989
BACKGROUND:
Current sections of the recreational food fish and shellfish license code are inconsistent. These differences are in age limits for free licenses, license fees for residents and nonresidents, and in the use of punchcards.
SUMMARY:
Salmon and sturgeon punchcards are replaced with a recreational license for each fish. Punchcards for halibut and ling cod are also repealed. The Department of Fisheries retains the authority to issue free punchcards for management purposes.
A two consecutive day sturgeon license and a two consecutive day all fish (except sturgeon) license replace the combined two day license. No personal use license is required for either two day licenses.
A razor clam recreational license is required for digging on national park beaches. An application for a disabled person's digging permit must include a copy of a medical doctor's certification of disability.
All recreational licenses are free to residents under 16 and over 69 years of age and to blind persons regardless of age. Honorably discharged disabled veterans over age 65, and who have lived in the state for the five previous consecutive years, may also receive free licenses. Residents between age 16 and 69 pay $3.00 for each of the five licenses. Nonresidents over 15 pay $9.00 each for Hood Canal shrimp, razor clams, and personal use fishing licenses. They also pay $3.00 each for sturgeon and salmon licenses. There is no over age 69 exclusion for nonresidents. Each of the two consecutive day licenses are $3.00 regardless of residency.
Authorized fisheries employees may check for recreational license violations.
Appropriation: none
Revenue: yes
Fiscal Note: requested January 18, 1989
Effective Date:January 1, 1990