SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5702
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 16, 2011
Title: An act relating to the temporary closure of a state park.
Brief Description: Regarding duties of the parks and recreation commission upon the temporary closure of a state park.
Sponsors: Senators Carrell, Fraser, Roach, Fain, Pflug, Holmquist Newbry, Benton, Swecker and Hewitt.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Marine Waters: 2/14/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & MARINE WATERS |
Staff: Sherry McNamara (786-7402)
Background: The State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks) has authority to care, charge, control, and supervise all parks and parkways, including 120 developed parks. State Parks may enter into written contracts with the United States, or any county or city in Washington to cooperate in the care for the parks and parkways of the state.
Summary of Bill: When a state park is temporarily closed due to budget constraints, State Parks is authorized, if determined feasible, to enter into agreements with the local government, local park district, nonprofit organizations, and civic organizations to provide maintenance of the temporarily closed state park.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 12, 2011.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: In the event that State Parks are closed temporarily because of the budget, this bill would provide an avenue for community assistance in maintaining the park during the closure. Our particular concern is with the Federation Forest, located along the White River. This park has hiking trails and an interpretive center that has several projects that have been updated and maintained over the past few years by volunteer efforts. We are concerned about vandalism of the park and its displays. This bill would make it permissible for local people to help the parks out during a temporary closure.
CON: We see this bill as leading to job loss for state park employees. Currently, the work at the park is done under our collective bargaining agreement. The law does not allow the use of volunteers to replace or supplant classified employees.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Carrell, prime sponsor; Charlene Lysne, General Federation of Women's Clubs of Washington State.
CON: Brian Yearout, Washington Federation of State Employees.