SB 5048.E - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS PASSED LEGISLATURE)

Provides a definition for "posting in a conspicuous manner" for purposes of chapter 9A.52 RCW (burglary and trespass).

 
VETO MESSAGE ON ESB 5048

April 4, 2014

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval, Engrossed Senate Bill No. 5048 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to notice against trespass."


This bill would make it easier for landowners to note the boundaries of their property for purposes of putting people on notice that they are trespassing onto private property. This includes using fluorescent orange paint marks on trees or posts on the property.

For this to be effective, the public needs a transition period to understand that a painted line on a tree means 'no trespassing.' Otherwise, we're undermining the purpose of the bill. The bill is also unclear whether signs are required on land adjacent to access roads or just when an access road crosses onto private property.

Therefore, I am vetoing ESB 5048. I encourage the sponsors to consider a transition period for a subsequent bill to build public awareness of this change and clarify for landowners where signs are required in relation to access roads.

For these reasons I have vetoed Engrossed Senate Bill No. 5048 in its entirety.

Respectfully submitted,
Jay Inslee
Governor