FINAL BILL REPORT
SHB 1260
Synopsis as Enacted
C 300 L 93
Brief Description: Modifying review of solid waste collection company tariff filings.
By House Committee on Environmental Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Linville, Horn and Rust; by request of Utilities & Transportation Commission).
House Committee on Environmental Affairs
Senate Committee on Ecology & Parks
Background: The Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) regulates all solid waste collection companies operating in the unincorporated areas of a county and some collection companies operating in cities.
Washington law does not require prior notice of rate changes applicable to the use of a landfill, transfer station or incinerator.
If a solid waste collection company regulated by the UTC wants to change a rate or a level of service such as routes or service delivery, it must provide 30 days notice to the public and to the UTC. During the 30-day period the UTC determines whether to approve the rate change or to initiate a formal review. A proposed rate change is "suspended" - does not go into effect - if the UTC decides to formally review it. By law, the UTC can suspend a proposed rate change for up to seven months.
Summary: A solid waste collection company regulated by the UTC is required to provide 45 days notice before changing rates or service levels. The UTC may suspend the company's requested change for up to 10 months, instead of the current seven months.
A county, city, or person initiating a rate change at a transfer station, landfill, or incinerator must provide written notice of the change to solid waste collection companies at least 75 days prior to the effective date of the rate change. A solid waste collection company may waive all or part of the 75-day notice requirement.
Votes on Final Passage:
House 97 0
Senate 45 0 (Senate amended)
House (House refused to concur)
Senate (Senate insisted)
House 97 0 (House concurred)
Effective: July 25, 1993