Washington Lawmakers Worry Shellfish Fees Could Skyrocket

Washington state lawmakers say they are concerned about a proposed shellfish fee hike that could soar by 500% or more.

State Senator Drew MacEwen said this could devastate small family shellfish farms and waterfront communities.

“This has dramatically affected the ability of small commercial farmers to do their business and has a dramatic impact on our overall economy and on families and on jobs,” he said.

In an effort to stop it, the Shelton Republican and his 35th Legislative District seatmates in the House, are pushing House Bill 2659, which would freeze fees through 2027.

“The state cannot continue to have out of control government greed, where it just expects businesses and families to pay ever-rising costs that they've created,” MacEwan said.

MacEwen, the Senate Deputy leader, said their goal is to protect local shellfish growers and jobs that keep small local economies alive.

"This is a classic Olympia move - jack up fees, call it 'necessary,' and hope nobody notices until the bills hit," said Representative Travis Couture (Allyn). "A 500% increase isn't reasonable. It's reckless. And the people who pay for it are the families who work the tidelands and the workers who depend on those jobs."

Click Here to learn more about HB 2659.

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