SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5314
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. |
As of February 5, 2013
Title: An act relating to siting essential public facilities.
Brief Description: Identifying public schools as essential public facilities for the purposes of the growth management act.
Sponsors: Senators Becker, Dammeier, Rivers, Braun, Ericksen, Delvin and Honeyford.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Governmental Operations: 2/11/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS |
Staff: Karen Epps (786-7424)
Background: The Growth Management Act (GMA) is the comprehensive land use planning framework for county and city governments in Washington. Enacted in 1990 and 1991, the GMA establishes numerous requirements for local governments obligated by mandate or choice to fully plan under the GMA, known as planning jurisdictions, and a reduced number of directives for all other counties and cities.
The GMA directs planning jurisdictions to adopt internally consistent comprehensive land use plans that are generalized, coordinated land use policy statements of the governing body. Comprehensive plans must address specified planning elements, each of which is a subset of a comprehensive plan. The implementation of comprehensive plans occurs through locally adopted development regulations.
Comprehensive plans must include a process for identifying and siting essential public facilities. The GMA specifies that essential public facilities include facilities that are typically difficult to site, such as airports, state education facilities, state or regional transportation facilities, regional transit authority facilities, state and local correctional facilities, solid waste facilities, and certain inpatient facilities, such as substance abuse facilities or group homes. Comprehensive plans and development regulations may not preclude the siting of essential public facilities.
Summary of Bill: Public schools are considered an essential public facility under the GMA.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.