HB 2874-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Declares an intent to grant authority to the department of ecology to enter into agreements with the United States for allocation of ground waters that exist as a result of the Columbia basin project, adopt rules for implementing the agreements and establishing priorities for processing applications, and accept funds for expenses incurred, consistent with applicable state and federal law.  Inasmuch as rules adopted by the department will be significant legislative rules, the legislature intends to assure that it will be able to properly carry out its responsibility to both give direction and review the rules after their adoption by requiring periodic reports by the department.

     Authorizes the department of ecology to enter into agreements with the United States for the allocation of ground waters that exist as a result of the Columbia basin project.  The agreements and any allocation of water pursuant to the agreements must be consistent with authorized project purposes, federal and state reclamation laws, including federal rate requirements, and provisions of United States' repayment contracts pertaining to the project.

     Requires the department of ecology to report annually to the standing committees of the legislature with jurisdiction over water resources regarding the activities authorized by section 3 of this act, beginning December 1, 2002, and ending December 1, 2007.