SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5714

As of February 13, 2001

Title:  An act relating to nonuse of water for sufficient cause.

Brief Description:  Changing the time period for relinquishment of a water right.

Sponsors:  Senators Honeyford, Hale, Swecker, T. Sheldon, Morton, Rasmussen, McDonald, Hochstatter, Sheahan, Deccio, Hewitt, Parlette and Stevens.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Environment, Energy & Water:  2/15/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY & WATER

Staff:  Genevieve Pisarski (786‑7488)

Background:  Under current law, if a person voluntarily fails, without sufficient cause, to use a water right for five successive years, the water right reverts back to the state.  The state Supreme Court has construed sufficient cause narrowly.

Summary of Bill:  The period of time for which nonuse of water without sufficient cause is excused is increased from five to ten years.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.