Bill > HB1685

This bill restructures the governance of fish and wildlife in Washington state by consolidating executive and administrative power in the hands of a director appointed by the governor with senate consent, while transforming the Fish and Wildlife Commission into an advisory body. The director will have complete supervisory powers over the department, with the ability to appoint personnel and delegate duties, and will be responsible for preserving, protecting, and managing wildlife, fish, and shellfish resources. The bill requires the director to convene an interagency work group with representatives from various state agencies to improve collaboration on fish and wildlife issues, and to deliver a report to the legislature by August 1, 2026, identifying areas of inter-agency impact and suggesting ways to enhance cooperation. The Fish and Wildlife Commission will retain a meaningful role by submitting written recommendations on rules and policies, holding public meetings, requesting information from the director, and providing input on significant issues. Importantly, the director must consider and respond in writing to the commission's recommendations, explaining why they were or were not followed. The bill repeals several existing statutes related to the commission's previous authorities and directs the code reviser to update references accordingly, with all changes set to take effect on January 15, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1685&Year=2025&Initiative=false