HB 1005-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Finds that local utility lines must cross state-owned aquatic lands in order to reach all state residents and that, for the benefit of such residents, the state should permit such crossings, consistent with all applicable state environmental laws, in a nondiscriminatory, economic, and timely manner.

     Provides that the department may recover only its reasonable direct administrative costs incurred in processing and approving the request or application, and reviewing plans for construction of public utility lines.

     Provides that the use of state-owned aquatic lands for local public utility lines owned by a nongovernmental entity will be granted by easement if the use is consistent with the purpose of RCW 79.90.450 through 79.90.460 and does not obstruct navigation or other public uses.

     Declares that nothing in this act limits the ability of the department to obtain payment for commodity costs, such as lost revenue from renewable resources, resulting from the granted use of state-owned aquatic lands for public utility lines.

     Provides that, until July 1, 2008, the charge for the term of an easement granted under RCW 79.90.470(2) will be determined as follows and will be paid in advance upon grant of the easement: (1) Five thousand dollars for individual easement crossings that are no longer than one mile in length;

     (2) Twelve thousand five hundred dollars for individual easement crossings that are more than one mile but less than five miles in length; or

     (3) Twenty thousand dollars for individual easement crossings that are five miles or more in length.