Brief Description: Extending the date for implementation of ballast water discharge requirements.

Sponsors: Representatives Cooper, Sump, Moeller and Chase.

Hearing Date: 1/30/04

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7157).

Background:

In 2000 the Washington Legislature enacted ballast water management legislation . The legislation included the requirement that after July 1, 2002, nonexempt vessels could only discharge ballast water into waters of the state if they either did an open sea exchange or had treated the ballast water according to standards developed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. In 2002, legislation was enacted that changed the implementation date to July 1, 2004.

The 2002 legislation also required the WDFW to establish a ballast water work group. The ballast water work group was directed to study ballast water technology, including exchange and treatment methods and the associated costs, services needed by the industry and the state to protect the marine environment, and funding methods for implementing the ballast water program. The work group was required to submit a report to the Legislature by December 15, 2003.

Summary of Bill:

The date after which discharge of ballast water into waters of the state is authorized is changed from July 1, 2004, to July 1, 2008.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.