Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Environment Committee

HB 2636

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: Streamlining statutorily required environmental reports by government entities.

Sponsors: Representatives Smith, Tarleton and Morrell; by request of Department of Ecology.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Eliminates certain Department of Ecology periodic reports to the Legislature.

  • Requires the online posting of certain Department of Ecology program information in lieu of periodic reporting to the Legislature.

Hearing Date: 1/29/14

Staff: Jacob Lipson (786-7196).

Background:

The Department of Ecology (DOE) is responsible for the administration of a long list of statutes that affect the state's environment. The DOE's administrative responsibilities include the management of air quality, water resources, recycling, waste reduction and reuse, and many other environmental programs. Statutes that establish the DOE's program management responsibilities include a variety of procedural and administrative requirements. Many of these statutes also include a requirement for the agency to periodically report to the Legislature or the Governor on program activities.

Summary of Bill:

The following reports to the legislature are eliminated entirely:

The following reports or information must now be posted online, rather than submitted to the Legislature:

Other changes to existing program and reporting requirements include:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 23, 2014.

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