SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5424

BYSenators Metcalf, Amondson, DeJarnatt and Patterson

Providing for landowner liability protection for volunteer projects.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 8, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

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

Senate Staff:Gary Wilburn (786-7453)

                  February 6, 1990

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 5, 1990

BACKGROUND:

It is the policy of the state to encourage owners or others in lawful possession and control of land and water areas to make them available to the public for recreational purposes.  In recognition of this policy, a private or public landowner or person in control of the land is not liable for unintentional injuries which may occur to a recreational user of the land (RCW 4.24.210).

Additionally, the state is concerned with the preservation and upkeep of its lands and natural resources and recognizes the need to provide encouragement and safeguards for citizens to participate in programs related to those efforts.

SUMMARY:

A public or private landowner or person in control of the land is not liable for unintentional injuries to any volunteer group that is upon the land for purposes of a fish or wildlife cooperative project or the cleanup of litter or solid waste. 

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: No one