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HB 1631

Establishing the state marine forest.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Bernbaum and 24 co-sponsors

Washington establishes state marine forest protection to restore degraded kelp ecosystems and expand marine habitat conservation in state waters.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 1631

Legislative bill overview

HB 1631 establishes Washington's first state marine forest, creating a protected area to restore and preserve kelp forests and other marine vegetation in state waters. The bill authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to manage this marine forest area with specific conservation and restoration objectives. It became law on April 16, 2025, with an effective date of July 27, 2025.

Why is this important

Kelp forests support critical marine ecosystems, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, and help sequester carbon. Washington's marine forests have declined significantly due to sea urchin overpopulation, pollution, and other environmental stressors. Establishing formal state protection and management creates legal authority and dedicated resources for ecosystem restoration in state waters.

Potential points of contention

  • Fishing and harvesting restrictions: The marine forest designation may limit commercial or recreational harvesting of sea urchins, kelp, and other resources that stakeholders currently rely on
  • Management costs and funding: Establishing and maintaining a marine forest requires ongoing state funding and staffing at a time of budget constraints
  • Jurisdictional overlap: Coordinating management between state agencies and federal authorities (NOAA, etc.) over marine areas may create bureaucratic complexity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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