Lawmakers debate vessel‑registration donations to fund pinniped management
HB 21 31 would add an optional donation on vessel registration to fund pinniped management in the Lower Columbia; supporters argued it could fund removal authority already available under NOAA permits, while opponents called the measure misleading and urged focus on dams, habitat and pollution.
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House Bill 21 31 would add a voluntary option to vessel registration and renewal forms to collect donations for pinniped management aimed at protecting salmon stocks in the Lower Columbia River. Staff noted NOAA Fisheries has pathways to authorize removal of pinnipeds under narrow circumstances and said a sponsor amendment delays implementation from July 1 to Oct. 1, 2026.
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