SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   EHB 2779

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 26, 1992

Brief Description:  Requiring that the state request a NEPA EIS if actions pursuant to federal legislation are likely to result in radioactive waste entering the state at other than an approved port of entry.

SPONSORS: Representatives Cooper, H. Myers, Riley and Jacobsen

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON CAPITAL FACILITIES & FINANCING

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

Staff:  Phil Moeller (786‑7445)

Hearing Dates: February 27, 1992

BACKGROUND:

Public interest has been strong in encouraging extensive state involvement in the management of radioactive waste.  Among the measures implemented is limitation of the points on the state border where radioactive waste may enter the state by highway.  Inspection of transporting vehicles is done at those points.  Currently two are authorized, one at Plymouth, adjacent to McNary Dam on the Columbia River and south of the Tri-Cities, and the other east of Spokane at the border on I-90.

Actions pursuant to the federal Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and pertinent federal regulations could result in additional ports of entry, with the most likely one in the near term being at the Longview Bridge.

State interests can be served by state involvement in any relevant proceedings and by requiring transporting vehicle inspections at any additional ports of entry that may be established. 

SUMMARY:

If actions pertaining to federal legislation appear likely to result in additional highway entry points for radioactive waste, the state is directed to intervene in such actions.  The state shall request preparation of an environmental impact statement.

At any subsequently designated ports of entry, inspections identical to those now conducted at existing ports of entry shall be conducted and shall be financed by collection of a public safety tariff.  The amount of the tariff shall be sufficient to fully fund the cost of the inspections.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available