HB 1561 - DIGEST

     Declares an intent to provide for more local government flexibility in protecting shorelines, while upholding the public trust doctrine as it applies to shorelines of the state.  Nothing in this act is intended to change the authority of the department of ecology to adopt guidelines pertaining to shorelines of statewide significance which are mandatory for local governments.  Nothing in this act is intended to change the current process established for obtaining permits under the shoreline management act.

     Finds that it is unnecessary for local governments to fully review all elements of their comprehensive plans and development regulations every five years, and that any updates to shoreline guidelines should be coordinated with growth management act updates.