SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5109

As Passed Senate, May 8, 2001

Title:  An act relating to prohibiting the assessment of fees for basic parkland access by the state parks and recreation commission.

Brief Description:  Prohibiting basic parkland access fees.

Sponsors:  Senators T. Sheldon, Hargrove, Finkbeiner, Johnson and Stevens.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Natural Resources, Parks & Shorelines:  1/25/01.

First Special Session:  Passed Senate:  5/8/01, 28-16.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, PARKS & SHORELINES

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786‑7413)

Background:  Many national parks, national forests, and other state parks charge user fees.  Forty-one states charge a day use fee.  Washington and Hawaii are the only western states that do not charge a day use fee.

All agencies, including State Parks, are under a Governor's directive to be more self-supporting and more creative about revenue generation.  It is felt that a day use fee is the last significant action the agency can take to produce a large revenue stream.

In recent years State Parks has developed a large backlog of deferred maintenance, and repairs have not kept pace with increased use.  Recently, the Parks and Recreation Commission approved the concept of implementing a day use parking fee, effective January 1, 2002.  Concerns have been raised about charging visitors for access to state park facilities.

Summary of Bill:  The State Parks and Recreation Commission is prohibited from charging fees for basic parkland access.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.