Brief Description: Encouraging volunteers to teach hunter education courses.

Sponsors: By House Committee on Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks (originally sponsored by Representatives Cox, Buri, Williams, Blake, Moeller, Buck, Conway, Sump, P. Sullivan, Springer, Haler, Ericks, Kretz, Simpson, Dunn and Ormsby).

House Committee on Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks
Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation

Background:

The Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) is responsible for the operation of a statewide hunter education program. This program, or an equivalent program in another state, must be completed by most applicants for a state hunting license.

The hunter education program consists of at least 10 hours of instruction in safety, conservation, sportsmanship, and firearm handling. Average classes involve four to six sessions and require the student to pass a written test and demonstrate firearm handling skills. The Department offers both a live course option and a home study option. Live courses are scheduled throughout the state.

Hunter education courses are taught by volunteers, either individually or as a team, who are trained and certified by the Department. All instructors must be at least 21 years of age and undergo a background investigation by the Department.

Summary:

The Department is directed to create non-monetary incentives to encourage more individuals to volunteer their time as hunter education instructors.

Votes on Final Passage:

House   98   0
Senate   45   0

Effective: June 7, 2006