WSR 23-13-085

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

[Filed June 15, 2023, 5:14 p.m.]

Washington lawmakers passed the Healthy Environment for All Act (also known as the HEAL Act, chapter 70A.02 RCW). This law initiates a historical step in centering environmental justice to reduce health disparities in Washington state and improve the safety of all its residents.

The Washington state department of transportation (WSDOT) is requesting public input regarding the types of agency actions that require an environmental justice assessment under RCW 70A.02.060. In addition to the four types of actions listed below (defined in the law), agencies may identify other actions by July 2025. WSDOT invites the public to suggest other agency actions that should receive an environmental justice assessment.

WSDOT will conduct environmental justice assessments on the following actions initiated after July 1, 2023, in accordance with RCW 70A.02.060:

(a) The development and adoption of significant legislative rules as defined in RCW 34.05.328.

(b) The development and adoption of any new grant or loan program that a covered agency is explicitly authorized or required by statute to carry out.

(c) A transportation project, grant, or loan by WSDOT of at least $15,000,000.

(d) The submission of agency request legislation to the office of the governor or the office of financial management for approval.

You may provide your comments to the WSDOT office of equity and civil rights by email at william.golding@wsdot.wa.gov or EnvironmentalJustice@wsdot.wa.gov.