The bill aims to ensure the continued production of anadromous hatchery fish in Washington state, particularly in light of budget constraints that threaten hatchery operations. It recognizes the sensitivity and endangered status of many anadromous fish stocks and mandates that the Department of Fish and Wildlife maintain hatchery production levels despite any closures that may occur.

To support this goal, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 77.95 RCW, stipulating that the Department must not reduce the production of any anadromous fisheries stock due to hatchery closures. Instead, it requires the Department to compensate for any production losses by increasing output in other facilities, thereby safeguarding the state's fish populations and supporting conservation efforts.