Washington House Bill 1685 proposes moving the Fish and Wildlife Commission under direct gubernatorial control, effectively sidelining the Commission’s independent authority. Instead of improving accountability and transparency, this approach consolidates decision-making into a single political appointee, reducing public oversight and potentially disregarding science-based management and Tribal co-management needs.

We believe in strengthening the existing Commission by:

• Implementing formal Tribal consultation requirements
• Enforcing transparent appointment processes and rigorous qualifications
• Requiring annual performance reports and clear rules of conduct

These targeted reforms uphold the public trust, keep politics in check, and ensure that wildlife decisions are made objectively, guided by science and broad stakeholder input.

Take action now: Oppose HB 1685 and support reform that empowers a functional, transparent Commission—one that honors the diverse voices of hunters, anglers, farmers, Tribal co-managers, conservationists, and the public at large. Your voice makes a difference in ensuring Washington’s wildlife and natural resources are managed responsibly for current and future generations.

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