SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1597

BYHouse Committee on State Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Patrick, Tate, Sayan, Bowman, Nelson, Todd, Brumsickle and Rust)

Establishing a geologists' review board.

House Committe on State Government

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 21, 1990; February 22, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators McCaslin, Chairman; Thorsness, Vice Chairman; DeJarnatt, Patrick, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Barbara Howard (786-7410)

                  February 22, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS, FEBRUARY 22, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Geologists lend expertise to engineering projects, ground water inspections, land use planning, mineral exploration and development, and geologic and seismic hazards determinations. Nineteen states currently regulate professional geologists.  Oregon, for example, requires that anyone professionally preparing geologic maps, plans, or reports be registered by the State Board of Geologist Examiners.  Registrants must meet a number of educational and experience requirements and pass an examination prepared by the board.

Washington does not regulate professional geologists.  When geologic reports or plans are required to determine the stability of a construction site with respect to landslides, drainage problems, or seismic hazards, counties and cities may rely on the expertise of registered civil engineers with a specialty in geotechnical engineering.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature finds it may be in the public interest to establish qualifications for the practice of geological work.

The Department of Licensing (DOL) is required to conduct an evaluation of professional geological work to determine whether and to what extent the state should regulate its practice.  DOL is to consult and cooperate with members of societies and associations directly involved with the practice of professional geological work. DOL's findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Legislature by December 1, 1990.

If DOL finds it to be in the public interest to regulate the practice of professional geological work, it will prepare a legislative proposal to implement regulation.  The proposal will include:  definitions and criteria for qualification and practice as a professional geologist in Washington; provisions creating a professional geologist board; powers and responsibilities for the board; and a system of reciprocity for professional geologists registered in other states.

The provisions expire June 30, 1991.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 30, 1990

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

The major changes in the striking amendment:  (1) call for the Department of Licensing to consult with geologists and professional geological organizations; (2) indicate that a proposal for regulation may include more items than specified; and (3) the reference to a state registry of geologists is changed to a roster.

Senate Committee - Testified: Rex Humphrey, Washington Section, American Institute of Professional Geologists (pro); Ray Lasmanis, State Geologist, DOE (pro); William Ross Clevenger, Chair, Washington Section, American Association of Engineering Geologists (pro); Pam Barrett, Northwest Mining Association (pro)