The bill amends Washington state law to improve funding and access to state-owned recreational lands by increasing the cost of the discover pass from $30 to $45, with a mandated review every four years to adjust the price for inflation. It establishes that a lifetime disabled veteran pass is equivalent to a discover pass when the holder is present in the vehicle, and it requires that one complimentary discover pass be provided to volunteers who complete 24 hours of service on agency-sanctioned projects. Additionally, a family discover pass that is transferable among vehicles is introduced, and the distribution of revenue from pass sales is modified, increasing the initial allocation from $71 million to $85 million for various state agencies. The penalty for failing to display a pass is reduced from $99 to $59 if proof of purchase is provided within 15 days, and provisions for discounts and free access for senior citizens and disabled individuals are included.

While the bill has been approved by both the Senate and the House, the Governor has partially vetoed a section that proposed the establishment of a work group to review funding mechanisms for the State Parks and Recreation Commission, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Natural Resources, citing concerns over resource diversion and uncertain outcomes. The remaining sections of the bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to enhance the operational capabilities of the involved agencies while ensuring a focus on immediate needs 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