Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2085

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Modifying the department of fish and wildlife's habitat recovery pilot program.

Impact

The proposed modifications in HB2085 are expected to lead to notable improvements in the state’s conservation strategies. By updating the habitat recovery pilot program, the bill seeks to provide a more structured approach to habitat restoration efforts. These changes may also influence related state laws on environmental protection by establishing benchmarks and accountability measures to evaluate progress in recovering impacted ecosystems. Supporters believe that the bill is crucial for fostering biodiversity and ensuring that natural habitats can thrive, while also potentially leading to positive economic benefits through the promotion of outdoor recreation and tourism linked to healthy ecosystems.

Summary

House Bill 2085 aims to modify the existing habitat recovery pilot program administered by the department of fish and wildlife. The objective of the bill is to enhance the effectiveness of the program in restoring and preserving natural habitats that benefit various species of wildlife. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of habitat conservation not only for ecological balance but also for the sustainability of local wildlife populations. The bill contains provisions intended to refine the program’s operational guidelines, defining clearer objectives and mechanisms for assessing success.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB2085 appears to be generally positive among advocates of environmental conservation, including various wildlife organizations and ecological groups. They laud the bill as a vital step toward improving habitat recovery efforts, which they argue are essential for maintaining biodiversity and the health of local ecosystems. However, there is some apprehension expressed by stakeholders who may be concerned about the funding and resources necessary to implement the proposed changes effectively, citing potential risks of over-reliance on government programs without adequate support.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB2085 include debates around funding allocations and the potential bureaucratic implications of expanding the habitat recovery program. Some legislators have raised concerns that increased oversight and regulatory requirements could hinder existing conservation efforts rather than support them. Additionally, there may be discussions about the balance between state-level initiatives and local governance in managing wildlife and habitat conservation efforts, reflecting broader themes of state control versus local authority in environmental matters.

Companion Bills

WA SB5922

Crossfiled Modifying the department of fish and wildlife's habitat recovery pilot program.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2379

Modifying the department of fish and wildlife's habitat recovery pilot program.

WA SB5922

Modifying the department of fish and wildlife's habitat recovery pilot program.

WA SB6143

Concerning local salmon habitat recovery planning in critical areas.

WA HB1235

Modifying miscellaneous provisions impacting department of fish and wildlife licensing requirements.

WA HB1422

Modifying the drug take-back program.

WA SB5742

Codifying certain existing grant programs at the department of transportation.

WA SB5499

Codifying the body scanner program at the department of corrections.

WA SB5752

Modifying child care and early childhood development programs.

WA SB6187

Concerning the body scanner pilot program at the department of corrections.

WA LB973

Provide for free issuance of annual combination fishing, fur-harvesting, and hunting permits, habitat stamps, aquatic habitat stamps, and Nebraska migratory waterfowl stamps to certain veterans

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.