Committee backs higher boat-decal fee to fund dam maintenance

The committee voted unanimously to recommend passage of House Bill 629, a measure to raise the boat decal fee and direct the proceeds to the state's dam maintenance fund.

The chair opened the executive session on HB629 and recognized Representative Leishman for motion and discussion. A member noted the legislation follows a long study of the state's deteriorating dam situation and said the bill would provide about $500,000 toward the dam maintenance fund, "which is certainly not enough to take care of our problems, but it's a start." Representative Munson said the state owns 275 dams, 64 of which are classified as high-hazard, and estimated the total cost to address maintenance problems at roughly $300 million.

Representative McGuire reported speaking with boat owners and said most understand they derive benefit from dams and were "not strongly object[ing]" to the nominal fee increase. With no further opposition recorded, the clerk called roll and the chair announced the motion passed 7-0.

Supporters framed the measure as a modest, targeted revenue source for dam upkeep; committee members emphasized the amount does not solve the full funding shortfall but provides additional resources for maintenance work. The committee closed the executive session following the recorded vote.