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House committee hears bill to create statewide wildlife‑connectivity strategy, accounts for crossings
Summary
The House Transportation Committee heard ESSB 5203, which would require WSDOT and WDFW to develop an integrated wildlife habitat connectivity strategy, create two dedicated accounts for corridors and crossings, and report to the legislature by Dec. 1, 2026; testimony ranged from conservation groups urging passage to rural landowners and local officials raising concerns about outreach and cost.
The House Transportation Committee took testimony Feb. 18 on ESSB 5203, a bill that would direct the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop an integrated wildlife habitat connectivity strategy and create two accounts to fund wildlife corridors and highway crossings.
Committee staff David Meneke told members the measure would formalize coordination between WSDOT and WDFW, require consultation with tribal governments and federal agencies, establish objectives for prioritizing projects and oversight, and require reporting to the legislature and governor by Dec. 1, 2026 and biennially thereafter. Meneke said the bill is intended to implement the Washington Habitat Connectivity Action…
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