Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 1180
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. |
Brief Description: Enhancing recreational opportunities for veterans with disabilities.
Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Buys, Kirby, Reeves, Stanford, Chapman, Muri, Kilduff, McDonald, Ormsby, Tarleton and Doglio.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/2/17
Staff: Sean Flynn (786-7124).
Background:
In 2011 the Legislature created the Discover Pass to help recover the costs for the operation and management of state lands used for recreational activities. The Discover Pass establishes a user fee for motor vehicle access to recreational areas managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (State Parks), the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife (collectively "the agencies").
A Discover Pass costs $30 per year and may be used for up to two vehicles. A day-use permit is also available for $10 per day. All money received from the Discover Pass and day-use permits sales are deposited into a special account, and distributed to the agencies on a proportional basis established by the Legislature. A complimentary Discover Pass must be provided for any volunteer who performs at least 24 hours of service for any of the agencies.
A penalty of $99 is assessed for failing to display a valid pass required for recreational lands. The penalty is reduced to $59 if the person proves purchase of a pass within 15 days of the violation.
Summary of Bill:
A complimentary Discover Pass must be provided annually to any state resident who is a veteran with a documented service-related disability rating of 100 percent. The penalty for failure to display a Discover Pass or day-use pass is reduced to $59 if the person is issued a veteran disability complimentary pass within 15 days of the violation.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Preliminary fiscal note available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.