HB 1957-S - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 2ND SUB)

     Authorizes the department to process and render decisions on applications for change or transfer under chapter 90.03 RCW and amendments of ground water rights under chapter 90.44 RCW as a matter of higher priority than processing and rendering decisions on applications for new water rights.  Any application for a new water right for which a permit decision has not been made by the department at the time a transfer or change is approved shall not be considered an existing water right subject to analysis as to whether the application may be injured, impaired, or detrimentally affected by the transfer or change.