Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Technology, Energy & Communications Committee

HB 1781

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Regarding alternative fuel vehicle requirements.

Sponsors: Representatives Pearson, Eddy and Kristiansen.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Delays the 100 percent biodiesel or electricity usage requirement for state and local governments by three years.

  • Exempts from the requirements of the bill any first response or emergency related vehicles operated by fire departments, police departments, ambulance districts, or any emergency response organization.

Hearing Date: 2/8/11

Staff: Kara Durbin (786-7133).

Background:

In 2007, the Legislature enacted alternative fuel usage requirements for state and local governments. These requirements specify that by 2015, all state agencies and local governments, to the extent practicable as determined by the Department of Commerce, must satisfy 100 percent of their fuel needs for all vessels, vehicles, and construction equipment using electricity or biofuel. The Department of Commerce must adopt rules to define practicability and clarify how state and local governments will be evaluated to determine compliance.

In 2009, an interim alternative fuel usage requirement was adopted for state agencies. By June 1, 2013, state agencies, to the extent practicable as determined by the Department of Commerce, must achieve 40 percent fuel usage from electricity or biofuel for publicly owned vessels, vehicles, and construction equipment.

Summary of Bill:

The compliance date for 100 percent biodiesel or electricity use by state and local governments is pushed back by three years. State agencies and local governments are required, to the extent practicable as determined by the Department of Commerce, to satisfy 100 percent of their fuel needs for all vessels, vehicles, and construction equipment using electricity or biofuels effective June 1, 2018.

This requirement does not apply to first response or emergency-related vehicles operated by fire departments, fire districts, ambulance districts, police departments, or any emergency response organization.

Statutory references to the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development are changed to the Department of Commerce.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.