Creation and Role of the Invasive Species Council.  The Legislature first established the Invasive Species Council (Council) in 2006 to provide policy level direction, planning, and coordination on invasive species issues in Washington.  The goals of the Council include minimizing the effects of harmful invasive species, serving as a forum for identifying and understanding relevant issues, facilitating joint planning and cooperation, educating the public, and providing policy advice to the Legislature.

The 2006 legislation also created the Invasive Species Council Account (Account), which can receive appropriations, gifts, grants, and donations.  Account funds may only be used to carry out the purposes of the Council.

Membership and Staffing of the Invasive Species Council.  Council membership consists of representatives from state and federal agencies, local governments, and other members invited by the Council.  The Council is administratively located within the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO), and the RCO and participating agencies provide staff support to the Council.

Scheduled Expiration of the Invasive Species Council.  The Legislature's initial 2006 authorization for the Council established an expiration date of December 31, 2011.  In 2011, and again in 2016, the Legislature reauthorized the Council and associated Account with a current expiration date of June 30, 2022.

The legislative authorization for the Council and associated Account is extended by ten years to June 30, 2032.