HB 2466-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Finds that some nonindigenous species have the potential to cause economic and environmental damage to the state and that current efforts to stop the introduction of nonindigenous species from shipping vessels do not adequately reduce the risk of new introductions into Washington waters.

     Recognizes the international and rapidly changing dimensions of this issue, and the difficulty that any one state has in either legally or practically managing this issue.

     Declares support for the international maritime organization and United States coast guard efforts, and the state intends to complement, to the extent its powers allow it, the United States coast guard's ballast water management program.

     Designates penalties for violations of the act.

     Requires that, by December 31, 2005, the natural resources committees of the legislature must review this act and its implementation and make recommendations if needed to the 2006 regular session of the legislature.

     Directs the departments of fish and wildlife and ecology to invite representatives from the United States department of defense to discuss ways of improving ballast water management in Washington state.  The departments, in cooperation with the United States coast guard shall seek input from other coastal states and the Province of British Columbia in conducting the study and in formulating recommendations.  The departments shall provide the most appropriate forum to stimulate dialogue which can result in specific policies and action protocols.  The departments shall make recommendations concerning proposals for laws and rules that will guarantee the same level of public and private compliance to protect the marine environment.  The legislature wishes to ensure that vessels exempted from this act by section 3(1)(a) of this act are taking adequate precautions to prevent the introduction of nonindigenous species into the waters of the state.  The departments of fish and wildlife and ecology shall submit a report to the legislature by December 31, 2001, summarizing the results of these discussions.