SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6336

BYSenators Metcalf and Rasmussen

Requiring all citizens to be treated equally when property is being seized or forfeited for a wildlife offense.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 22, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

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

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  January 23, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, JANUARY 22, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Wildlife has the authority to seize personal property when a wildlife offense has been committed.  Procedures exist for the department to return the property if the person is not convicted of the offense.

SUMMARY:

When seizing property for wildlife offenses, the Department of Wildlife must apply the seizure law to all citizens of the state of Washington in an equal manner and must strictly enforce RCW 75.56.040 which requires equal enforcement regardless of sex, origin, cultural heritage or treaty based on such.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Lee Smith, Department of Wildlife (pro); Jim King, Washington Sportsmen's Council (pro); J.K. Johnson, Washington State Muzzleloaders Association (pro)