SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1753
As of March 20, 2023
Title: An act relating to changing certain notice provisions in the derelict vessel removal program.
Brief Description: Changing certain notice provisions in the derelict vessel removal program.
Sponsors: House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Bronoske, Leavitt and Reed).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/27/23, 95-0.
Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks: 3/23/23.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Provides that notice of intent to obtain custody of a derelict vessel must be mailed ten days, rather than 20 days, prior to taking custody of the derelict vessel.
  • Provides that notice of intent to obtain custody of a derelict vessel must be posted on the vessel 15 days, rather than 30 days, prior to taking custody of the derelict vessel.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER, NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS
Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7428)
Background:

The Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) is administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).  Under DVRP, certain authorized public entities, including DNR and most public agencies that own or manage aquatic lands, may take custody and dispose of abandoned or derelict vessels on aquatic lands within their jurisdiction.  The owner of an abandoned or derelict vessel is responsible for the cost of removal and disposal of the vessel.  
 
Before an authorized public entity may take custody of a derelict vessel, the public entity must take certain steps, including:

  • mailing notice of its intent to obtain custody of the vessel at least 20 days prior to taking custody;
  • posting notice of its intent clearly on the vessel for 30 days; and
  • publishing its intent at least once in a newspaper of general circulation for the county in which the vessel is located.
Summary of Bill:

Notice of intent to obtain custody of a derelict vessel must be mailed to the last known address of the previous owner ten days, rather than 20 days, prior to taking custody of the derelict vessel.  A notice of intent must be posted on the derelict vessel 15 days, rather than 30 days, prior to taking custody of the derelict vessel.  Notice of intent no longer needs to be published in a newspaper prior to taking custody of the derelict vessel.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.