The bill modifies the joint legislative audit and review committee's studies by extending the sunset date for certain provisions from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2035. It allows for the extension of timelines for conducting studies and removes barriers to continuing the sustainable harvest study. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 43.131.900 to reflect the new sunset date and updates RCW 76.04.516 to enhance reporting requirements related to wildfire response and forest health initiatives. Additionally, it mandates that the department hire independent contractors to assist in updating forest inventory and reviewing forest growth and yield modeling prior to the determination of the sustainable harvest calculation for 2025-2034.

Furthermore, the bill amends RCW 44.28.083 to include new criteria for the joint legislative audit and review committee's performance audit work plans. It adds a consideration for whether a planned review as part of a mandated, recurring study would provide the legislature with new or additional information. This change aims to ensure that the committee's audits remain relevant and informative, thereby enhancing legislative oversight and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.131.900, 76.04.516, 79.10.320