SB 5912 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Declares an intent of this act to:

     (1) Modify siting procedures to emphasize early identification and resolution of issues with the participation of all the interested public, with the objective of decreasing reliance on costly trial-like adjudicatory proceedings;

     (2) Provide for state review of energy facility site applications through procedures that are more expeditious and predictable than the current procedures;

     (3) Provide greater deference to the siting standards adopted by the local jurisdictions in which the facilities are sought to be sited;

     (4) Provide for greater consideration of statewide energy needs and interests, as reflected in the state's energy strategy and policies, when facility siting applications are reviewed by the council;

     (5) Decrease the size of the council and change its membership from that composed exclusively of state agency representatives to a governor-appointed citizen council, while providing the council the means to obtain the siting expertise of state agencies; and

     (6) Authorize siting procedures that provide the public a clearer and more meaningful process for participating in review of siting applications.

     Appropriates the sum of ...... dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2001, from the general fund to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the purposes of implementing section 32 of this act.

     Appropriates the sum of ...... dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002, from the general fund to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the purposes of implementing section 32 of this act.

     Repeals provisions of chapter 80.50 RCW.