The bill aims to enhance the efficiency of the timber sale process and standardize the language used in the Department of Natural Resources' land sales. Key amendments include changes to the notification process for land sales, which now requires advertisements to be published on the department's public website and in regional headquarters, rather than solely in a conspicuous place in the Olympia office. The bill also mandates that a list of all public lands for sale, organized by county and in alphabetical order, be made available at least four weeks prior to the sale, with provisions for free distribution and additional means of publication to reach prospective buyers.

Further amendments clarify the procedures for conducting sales, including the requirement for appraisals before sales and restrictions on sale days. The bill allows for the reoffering of sales with no bids received, consistent with existing regulations. Additionally, it expands the department's authority to manage lands acquired by the state, allowing for direct transfers to public agencies and ensuring that lands are sold or transferred at fair market value. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the timber sale process while ensuring transparency and accessibility for potential buyers.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 79.15.070, 79.15.080, 79.15.150, 79.15.060