The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance the authority of the Department of Natural Resources regarding the leasing of state lands, water rights, and physical trust assets for the benefit of trust beneficiaries and the state. Key insertions include provisions that allow the department to lease water rights and physical trust assets, with a requirement for a minimum 60-day advance notice to potentially impacted federally recognized tribes before leasing water rights. This notice aims to assess any potential impacts on fish, aquatic resources, cultural resources, or other treaty-reserved rights. Additionally, the bill specifies that leases for water rights and physical trust assets cannot exceed 20 years, while other types of leases have varying maximum terms, such as 99 years for residential purposes.

The bill also updates the requirements for lease agreements, ensuring that they include specific uses, improvements, and payment terms. It mandates that all leases must be appraised at fair market value and allows for negotiations for public agency leases. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that public auctions for leasing must be conducted with proper notice and can be done through oral or sealed bids, with leases awarded to the highest bidder. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the leasing process while ensuring that the interests of the state and affected tribes are adequately protected.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 79.13.010, 79.17.200, 79.13.060, 76.04.021, 79.13.120, 79.13.130, 79.13.140
Substitute Bill: 79.13.010, 79.17.200, 79.13.060, 76.04.021, 79.13.120, 79.13.130, 79.13.140