SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5915

BYSenators DeJarnatt, Benitz, Barr, Kreidler, Patterson and Murray

Creating a fishery management study committee.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 20, 1989

Senate Staff:Ross Antipa (786-7413)

AS OF FEBRUARY 20, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Both Oregon and Washington State Legislatures have considered legislation in recent years which would allocate food fish between user groups.  This legislation has been highly controversial and neither state has made a final decision on the allocation of food fish between recreational and commercial non-Indian fishermen.

Some people feel that additional information is necessary before food fish and steelhead trout allocation decisions can be made by the state Legislature.

SUMMARY:

The Joint Legislative Interstate Committee on Fisheries is established.  It is composed of four Senate members and four House members, as well as six citizen members and a representative each of the Department of Fisheries and Department of Wildlife.  The committee is empowered to evaluate a wide variety of issues involving the management, enhancement, and politics of food fish and steelhead trout.  Emphasis is placed on cooperation between Oregon, Idaho and Washington to insure conservation and enhancement of food fish and steelhead fisheries.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 16, 1989

Appointments by Legislature Required:     Four Senate members and four House members.