FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 2633

                     Synopsis as Enacted

                          C 17 L 92

Brief Description:  Requiring local governments to encourage use of privately owned moderate‑risk waste facilities.

By House Committee on Environmental Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Rust, Horn, Valle, Heavey and J. Kohl).

House Committee on Environmental Affairs

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Background:  A number of private facilities in the state provide services to collect and recycle certain types of moderate-risk wastes. 

Moderate risk wastes are hazardous wastes that are generated in small quantities, less than 220 lbs per month.  Examples of moderate-risk waste include antifreeze, used oil filters, and "household hazardous wastes" such as the discarded containers of pesticides, cleaners, paints, and solvents.  Moderate-risk wastes are exempt from hazardous waste laws.

Local governments are required by law to establish a program to manage moderate risk wastes.  Local governments have initiated a wide variety of programs to collect moderate risk waste; these programs range from collection vehicles with established routes to annual or semi-annual collection days.  Current law also requires local governments to coordinate with private facilities involved in managing moderate risk waste.

Summary:  The bill requires local governments to take certain actions to incorporate private sector management of moderate-risk waste if the local government determines that a private facility offers an acceptable service at a reasonable price.  Actions that a local government can take include, but are not limited to, restricting or prohibiting the land disposal of a moderate risk waste.

Votes on Final Passage:

House  98   0

Senate 49   0

Effective:    June 11, 1992