Yes, the commercial license fees were increased but this was extracted from the bill as passed:
"Beginning with fiscal year 2018, and each fiscal year thereafter, the director must determine both the total amount of fees deposited in the state wildlife account for the sale of commercial licenses required under this title, and the portion of those fees that is attributable to the fee increases enacted in this act. The director must certify these amounts to the state treasurer, who must transfer the difference between these two amounts to the state general fund within one month of the close of the fiscal year. The portion of those fees that is attributable to the fee increases enacted in this act is retained in the state wildlife account." (emphasis added)
So, there is a nominal increase in commercial license fees but it is only the increased portion that goes to the Wildlife Account.
As a result the 249 Puget Sound NT commercial crabbers see increases of $50.00 for residents and $70.00 for non-residents; the only part of their licenses that will go directly to managing their fishery.
I am underwhelmed.
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Remember to immediately record your catch or you may become the catch!
It's the person who has done nothing who is sure nothing can be done. (Ewing)