FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5289

PARTIAL VETO

                              C 426 L 89

BYSenate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Senators Metcalf, DeJarnatt, Barr, Benitz and Anderson)

Authorizing the formation of regional fisheries enhancement groups.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

House Committe on Fisheries & Wildlife

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Regional fisheries enhancement groups, formed from interested private citizens, can be very effective in providing cost-effective fisheries enhancement.  The state of Alaska has operated under the regional enhancement group approach for the last 10 years, and they have found the program to be worthwhile.  In Washington State, the Grays Harbor Fisheries Enhancement Task Force serves as a working example of the concept.  There is a need for increased funding for the Grays Harbor group, and for other regional groups which may soon be organized.

SUMMARY:

The development of eight regional fisheries enhancement groups is encouraged by cooperative relations with the Department of Fisheries and a series of potential funding mechanisms:

     (1)Start-up grant:  $8,000 per group.

     (2)State loan.

     (3)Cost recovery from sale of eggs or carcasses which return to group facilities.

     (4)Operational grant, generated from a $1 surcharge per recreational salmon license and a $50 surcharge per commercial salmon license/charter boat license, to be on a matching basis (up to 90 percent state grant/10 percent other funds).

     (5)Private contribution.

Regional fisheries enhancement groups shall enhance the salmon resources of the state, consistent with the watershed planning process.  The Director of Fisheries shall report to the Legislature on an annual basis to document the catch of salmon from enhancement projects.

Appropriation:  $64,000 from general fund

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

     Senate   35    0

     House 93  0 (House amended)

     Senate          (Senate refused to concur)

     House           (House refused to recede)

Free Conference Committee

     House 96  1

     Senate   45    2

EFFECTIVE:July 23, 1989

Partial Veto Summary:  All sections of the bill were vetoed, except for the intent section and the section that requires the director of Fisheries to cooperate with regional fisheries enhancement groups.  (See VETO MESSAGE)