SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5590
As of January 19, 2022
Title: An act relating to eliminating the 2022 expiration date of the marine resources advisory council.
Brief Description: Eliminating the 2022 expiration date of the marine resources advisory council.
Sponsors: Senators Wagoner, Das, Lovelett, Mullet and Rolfes.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Environment, Energy & Technology: 1/19/22.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Removes the 2022 expiration date of the Marine Resources Advisory Council.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY & TECHNOLOGY
Staff: Ashley Trunnell (786-7278)
Background:

In 2013, the Legislature created the Washington Marine Resources Advisory Council (MRAC) within the Office of the Governor.  The purpose of MRAC is to maintain a sustainable and coordinated focus to address impacts of ocean acidification.
 
MRAC members include legislators; the Governor or the Governor's designee; elected officials; representatives from tribes, commercial and recreational fishing, shellfish growers, state agencies, marine recreation and businesses; and others from the private sector.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and academic institutions conducting research on ocean acidification may participate as non-voting members by invitation of the Governor.
 
MRAC is required to meet at least twice per year and provide opportunity for public comment.  MRAC's powers and duties include:

  • maintaining a coordinated focus to address the impacts of ocean acidification;
  • advising and working with the Washington Ocean Acidification Center on the effects and sources of ocean acidification;
  • providing recommendations to the Governor and Legislature;
  • seeking public and private funding resources to support MRAC's recommendations; and
  • assisting in conducting public education activities regarding ocean acidification.

 
MRAC expires June 30, 2022.
Summary of Bill:

The June 30, 2022, expiration date of MRAC is removed. 
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

PRO:  MRAC is the gold standard for ocean acidification research and coordination.  MRAC is necessary to address the ongoing issue of ocean acidification and provide further research to develop resiliency for the coastline and marine industries.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Keith Wagoner, Prime Sponsor; Jessie Turner, International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification; Martha Kongsgaard, Chair, MRAC.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.