Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Rural Development, Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee
HB 1261
Brief Description: Concerning wildlife harvest reports required by the department of fish and wildlife.
Sponsors: Representative Klippert.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Increases the maximum administrative penalty for a hunter who fails to report a wildlife harvest report from $10 to $20. 
  • Specifies that a hunter who has not completed a harvest report in a previous year must do so and pay any associated administrative penalties before they may acquire a new hunting license.
Hearing Date: 1/27/21
Staff: Rebecca Lewis (786-7339).
Background:

All individuals who hunt deer, elk, turkey, or bear are required to report their hunting successes or failures to the Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) within 10 days after the close of an eligible hunt, or by January 31, whichever date is later.  Reports can be submitted to the Department either by way of a toll-free automated phone system or through the Department's Internet website.  The Fish and Wildlife Commission may require a hunter who fails to report to pay an administrative penalty of no more than $10 per hunter, and that hunter must complete a report and pay any outstanding administrative penalties before they may acquire a hunting license in the following year.
Summary of Bill:

The maximum total administrative penalty per hunter for failure to report the taking or effort to harvest wildlife is increased from $10 to $20.  A hunter who has not completed a harvest report in a previous year, rather than the previous year, must do so and pay any associated administrative penalties before they may acquire a new hunting license.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 18, 2021.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.