The bill amends existing laws to enhance the authority of the commissioner of public lands in Washington State to enter into interlocal agreements with federally recognized Indian tribes. Specifically, it allows the commissioner to delegate enforcement authority over natural resource infractions to these tribes, provided they are state certified. This delegation is facilitated through agreements established under the interlocal cooperation act, thereby promoting collaboration between state agencies and tribal authorities in managing natural resources.

Additionally, the bill updates the enforcement provisions related to the rules governing the use of state-owned lands. It clarifies that the commissioner of public lands, along with designated employees, will have police powers to enforce rules and civil infractions associated with state-owned properties. The amendments also explicitly include federally recognized Indian tribes in the enforcement of civil infractions, thereby expanding the scope of enforcement to include tribal participation in the protection of public lands and resources.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 7.84.140, 43.12.065