FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 2503

                          C 74 L 98

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Authorizing consideration of the income level of customers when setting rates and charges for a storm water control facility.

Sponsors:  Representatives Robertson, Sullivan and Carrell.

House Committee on Government Administration

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Background:  County legislative authorities are authorized to fix by resolution the rates and charges for furnishing storm water control services.  These rates and charges may be assessed against anyone who receives services or benefits from any storm water control facility or who contributes to an increase in surface water runoff.

When fixing rates and charges, counties have discretion to consider five factors:

$the services furnished;

$the benefits received;

$the character and use or the water runoff characteristics of the land being served;

$the nonprofit public benefit status of the land user; or

$any other matters presenting a reasonable difference as a ground for distinction.

Summary:  Counties are authorized to consider a sixth factor when fixing rates for storm water control facilities.  A county legislative authority may consider the income level of persons provided storm water control benefits, including senior citizens and disabled persons. 

Votes on Final Passage:

House960

Senate430(Senate amended)

House950(House concurred)

Effective:June 11, 1998