The bill seeks to improve wildlife connectivity in Washington State by implementing a strategic approach to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and safeguard natural habitats. It highlights the detrimental effects of such collisions on wildlife populations and the economic burden on residents. To address these issues, the legislation mandates collaboration between the departments of Fish and Wildlife and Transportation, along with various stakeholders, to identify and protect wildlife habitat connectivity corridors and construct necessary crossing structures. The establishment of two new accounts—the Washington Wildlife Corridors Account and the Washington Wildlife Crossings Account—will provide funding for these initiatives, while an integrated wildlife habitat connectivity strategy will be developed to enhance ecological connectivity and ensure transparency through biennial reporting on expenditures.

In addition to wildlife management provisions, the bill amends existing law concerning the treasury income account, clarifying that no appropriation is needed for payments to financial institutions, which will occur prior to the distribution of earnings. The state treasurer is responsible for monthly distribution of earnings, with the general fund receiving the majority, except for specified accounts that will receive their proportional share. The bill also introduces expiration and effective dates for certain provisions, with Section 6 set to expire on July 1, 2028, and Section 7 taking effect on the same date. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance wildlife protection while streamlining the management of the treasury income account.