SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6793

As Passed Senate, February 27, 2002

Title:  An act relating to water right place of use and purpose of use for expanding public water systems.

Brief Description:  Changing provisions relating to expanding public water systems.

Sponsors:  Senators T. Sheldon and Oke.

Brief History:  Environment, Energy & Water:

Passed Senate:  2/27/02, 32-17.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY & WATER

Staff:  Genevieve Pisarski (786‑7488)

Background:  Under the state water code, the specific information that is required on an application for a water right for municipal water supply is the present population to be served and, as near as may be, the future requirement of the municipality.

Summary of Bill:  Requirements for coordination between the Department of Ecology and the Department of Health regarding approval procedures for water system plans are amended.  A municipal water supplier is defined as a purveyor, that has an approved water system plan and, also, is either a municipal corporation or the owner or operator of an expanding public water system that is entitled or obligated to serve existing and additional customers and uses within approved water service areas and consistent with applicable land use plans.  The place of use for municipal water suppliers is the service area in the approved water system plan.  The purpose of use is designated as municipal.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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