HB 3049-S2.E - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/16/98)

     Declares that the purpose of this act is to establish a multiagency work group to develop guidance to be used for evaluating mitigation alternatives that will enable local watershed planning groups to develop and implement watershed plans that maximize environmental benefits from project mitigation while reducing project design and permitting costs.  The purpose of this act is not to increase regulatory requirements or expand departmental authority.

     Declares that the intent of this act is to enable the optimized expenditure of project mitigation dollars on prioritized protection, restoration, and enhancement activities within a watershed.  Watershed plans should follow guidance created by the work group to ensure that such priorities can be met while meeting all local, state, and federal laws.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.