The bill seeks to improve access to state-owned recreational lands in Washington by increasing the cost of a discover pass from $30 to $45 and introducing a family discover pass priced at no more than $50. It also allows for a review of pass fees every four years to adjust for inflation. Additionally, volunteers who complete 24 hours of service on agency-sanctioned projects will receive a complimentary discover pass, and a lifetime disabled veteran pass will be recognized as equivalent to a discover pass for accessing recreational sites. The bill also modifies the distribution of revenues from pass sales, raising the initial revenue threshold for distribution from $71 million to $85 million, and reduces the penalty for failing to display a pass from $99 to $59 if proof of purchase is provided within 15 days.

While the bill has been approved by both the Senate and the House, it includes a notable veto from the Governor regarding Section 6, which proposed the creation of a work group to review funding for recreation and park functions. The Governor expressed concerns that the work group's costs would detract from immediate operational needs and that the study's outcomes could delay necessary funding solutions. The remaining provisions of the bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Natural Resources through more direct collaboration and sustainable funding models.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 79A.80.020, 79A.80.030
Substitute Bill: 79A.80.020, 79A.80.090
Engrossed Substitute: 79A.80.020, 79A.80.090, 79A.80.080, 79A.05.065
Bill as Passed Legislature: 79A.80.020, 79A.80.090, 79A.80.080, 79A.05.065
Session Law: 79A.80.020, 79A.80.090, 79A.80.080, 79A.05.065