On July 1, 2023, the Washington state department of agriculture (department) will begin conducting environmental justice (EJ) assessments when considering significant agency actions in accordance with RCW 70A.02.060 in order to (1) inform and support the department's consideration of overburdened communities and vulnerable populations when making decisions, and (2) assist the department with the equitable distribution of environmental benefits, the reduction of environmental harms, and the identification and reduction of environmental and health disparities.

The department is opening a public comment period to receive comments on this determination and suggestions on other agency actions that should be considered "significant" for the purpose of conducting EJ assessments in the future.


•	Adopting or developing significant legislative rules as defined in RCW 34.05.328.
•	Adopting or developing new grant or loan programs initiated after July 1, 2023.
•	Designing or awarding capital projects, grants, or loans of $12 million or more.
•	Developing agency request legislation.

To submit comments or ask questions related to the department's implementation of the EJ requirements, please contact Jill Wisehart, Environmental Justice Coordinator, 1111 Washington Street S.E., P.O. Box 42560, Olympia, WA 98504-2560, phone 360-974-9768, email envjustice@agr.wa.gov.