On Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 8:00 a.m., the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing for House Bill 1863, legislation from Rep. Leonard Christian that would prevent the Washington State Department of Natural Resources from compelling current or prospective lessees of state-owned aquatic lands from paying for land surveys.

“Aquatic land surveys, particularly in the rural areas of eastern Washington, can be challenging and costly for private citizens,” said Christian. “These surveys are not usually necessary for a lease and, if needed, should be a state responsibility—not foisted onto lessees.”

The hearing will streamed live on TVW.

Members of the public can testify in person or remotely, note their position for the legislative record, submit written testimony, and/or send a comment about this bill to their legislators.