SB 5273-S.E - DIGEST

 

                      (DIGEST AS ENACTED)

 

     Encourages as an option, advanced compensatory mitigation and off-site mitigation where it is deemed appropriate and beneficial for resources, and for accommodating necessary or unavoidable development in sensitive habitat areas.

     Declares that it is the policy of the state to authorize innovative mitigation measures by requiring state regulatory agencies to consider mitigation proposals for infrastructure projects that are timed, designed, and located in a manner to provide equal or better biological functions and values compared to traditional on-site, in-kind mitigation proposals.

     Provides that the department shall not require mitigation for sediment dredging or capping actions that result in a cleaner aquatic environment and equal or better habitat functions and values, if the actions are taken under a state or federal cleanup action.