HB 2247-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Revises the oil spill response tax that is imposed on the privilege of receiving crude oil or petroleum products at a marine terminal within this state from a waterborne vessel or barge operating on the navigable waters of this state.

     Authorizes the state treasurer to transfer a total of $1 million from the response account to the administration account during the 1999-01 biennium.

     Provides that the house of representatives, jointly with the senate, shall convene the Washington waters oil spill risk reduction work group.  The work group shall develop recommendations for an oil spill risk management plan and maintaining maritime commerce for all Washington shipping corridors.

     Directs the work group to discuss and develop a recommended risk management plan for Washington state marine corridors after taking into consideration input from existing information and studies, ongoing initiatives, the reports of various stakeholders and experts, potential impact to the state's economy, and the cost-benefit analysis being conducted by the United States coast guard to be submitted to the legislature by December 1, 1999.  The work group shall report to the legislature by January 10, 2000.