wa-law.org > bill > 2023-24 > SB 5488 > Original Bill
The legislature finds that funding support for fishing and hunting opportunities is an ongoing and important need. The primary account through which these opportunities are funded has been under significant budget strain in recent years. In light of this, the legislature finds that it is necessary to redirect the enhanced food fish excise tax from the general fund to the fish, wildlife, and conservation account established in RCW 77.12.170(3). The revenue from this tax, which is from the commercial harvest of certain fish, has a stronger nexus to the activities funded through the fish, wildlife, and conservation account than the general fund where it is presently deposited.
It is the intent of the legislature that this dedication of revenue will put the fish, wildlife, and conservation account on improved fiscal footing and help maintain fishing, hunting, and recreational opportunities for the residents of Washington state.
All taxes collected by the department of revenue under this chapter shall be deposited in the
fish, wildlife, and conservation account established in RCW 77.12.170 (3).
This act applies to taxes collected under chapter 82.27 RCW on or after August 1, 2023.