HB 2171-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Finds that while existing federal and state water pollution control laws have resulted in cleaner water for citizens of Washington state, too many water bodies still exceed existing water quality standards.  Such exceedances are caused both by point and nonpoint sources of pollution.

     Declares a policy to ensure the attainment of water quality standards that protect and restore the ability of the state's waters to provide multiple benefits; including, but not limited to, domestic, municipal, and industrial water supply; aquatic species; irrigation; and recreation.

     Declares that water quality standards should be attained through a variety of means, including the development and implementation of total maximum daily loads as provided under the clean water act, and the implementation of other pollution control measures.

     Declares a belief that the burden for attaining water quality standards must be shared among the various contributors to water quality impairment in proportion to their contribution.

     Finds that a watershed approach to water quality improvement allows the consideration of multiple factors and of their interactions.  It also provides a means for bringing together those persons who will need to implement necessary measures to improve water quality, as well as others who may be interested in water quality.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.