The bill aims to restructure the governance of fish and wildlife in Washington State by consolidating the executive and administrative powers within the Department of Fish and Wildlife under a director appointed by the governor with Senate consent. This new structure is intended to enhance accountability, transparency, and collaboration with tribal governments and other state agencies while maintaining the fish and wildlife commission as an advisory body for public input. Key amendments include the director's complete supervisory authority over the department, the establishment of a work group to improve interagency cooperation, and a requirement for the director to report on collaboration efforts by August 2026.

Additionally, the bill repeals several existing statutes related to the commission's authority and modifies the commission's role in advising the director on policies and rules. The commission will now focus on providing public recommendations, holding meetings for public input, and obtaining information from the director. The bill also includes provisions for the transition of current commission members and outlines the process for appointing a new director. The act is set to take effect on January 15, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 77.04.080, 77.04.012, 77.04.055, 77.04.090