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Dennis Clay, Rep. Warnick testify for hunters with disabilities
Warnick's bill passes out of committee
Rep. Judy Warnick
invited Moses Lake's Dennis Clay to give testimony for
House Bill 2540
which continues the work of a commission that allows individuals with
disabilities to safely hunt and fish. The bill passed out of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
Thursday morning. It will go on to the Rules Committee to determine if
it will be allowed to the House floor for a vote.
Clay, an outdoor writer,
photographer and broadcaster, told the story of his long-time friend,
Jerry Lester, who has multiple sclerosis but enjoys hunting and fishing.
Clay brought photos and a letter from Jerry about his experiences.
"This was a no-brainer for me when I was asked to sponsor the bill,"
Warnick, R-Moses Lake, told committee members.
"Without this
program, Jerry wouldn't have the memories and experiences of hunting and
fishing," Clay told the committee. "This commission needs to continue,
and it needs to be permanent."
The Fish & Wildlife
Commission Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities sets rules
and regulations so hunters and fishers with permanent disabilities can
continue their hobby safely and freely. The group of seven volunteers,
all of whom have disabilities themselves, has met since 2001. Under
current law, the commission has to be renewed every three years.
Warnick's measure would give the group permanent status.
"I want to make sure
the commission continues its good work without interruption," said Warnick,
who sits as Assistant Ranking Republican on the Agriculture and Natural
Resources Committee. "Hunters with disabilities need help from people like
Dennis who drive them to a spot or help them reel in fish. I'm glad he agreed to testify to the
usefulness of this commission."
Clay writes feature
stories with his wife and a weekly column for the Columbia Basin Herald
and Capital Press. He also hosts and produces KBSN's
"Columbia Basin Lifestyles" show and co-authored the book "Once a Hobo..."
with renowned local Montie Holmes.
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Editor's Note: Photos of today's committee
meeting and testimony are attached.
For more information, contact:
Sarah Lamb, Public Information
Officer - (360) 786-7720
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