SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5429

                    As of February 10, 1999

Title:  An act relating to procedural requirements in the transfer of state trust land.

Brief Description:  Creating procedural requirements in the transfer of state trust lands.

Sponsors:  Senators Morton, Hargrove, Deccio, Sellar and Hochstatter.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Natural Resources, Parks & Recreation:  2/17/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, PARKS & RECREATION

Staff:  Victor Moon (786-7469)

Background:  Concern exists that when large blocks of state trust lands are sold, there needs to be more analysis of the impacts of the sale and a greater public involvement by private citizens living in the area of the trade.  The procedural requirements for the transfer of state trust lands are presently in statute.  However, more data could be provided for the large blocks of land.

Summary of Bill:  Prior to transferring 6,400 acres or more, the Department of Natural Resources makes an appraisal of timber, land, and other values; contacts adjacent landowners; prepares a local economic and social impact statement at the expense of the entity that would receive the land; develops an assessment of long-term community impacts; and works with  existing land users and lessees to encourage historical uses of the land.  The department  develops requirements for the new land management entity to control noxious weeds and nonindigenous evasive species.

Prior to transferring the land, the Board of Natural Resources holds two public hearings in the area and publicizes the trade of the land.  The board provides data supporting the trade and a recommendation to the Legislature.  If the transfer of state trust lands involves forest lands, the Forest Practices Board, prior to the transfer, reviews forest practices and prepares special forest practice rules for the lands if needed.  Prior to the transfer of the forest lands, the Legislature reviews transfers recommended by the board, funding for the transfer, and economic and social impacts.  Final transfer is approved by concurrent resolution of the Legislature.  Cost of the transfer is paid by the entity receiving the lands.  The Board of Natural Resources must develop criteria to be considered when lands are proposed for transfer, and funding mechanisms to offset the impacts to local governments.  The report with the boards recommendation is due January 1, 2000.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 2, 1999.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.