HB 1500 - DIGEST

Finds that violations of the hydraulic code may range from relatively minor infractions to serious offenses. Many of the more serious offenses result in destruction of fish life and habitat because work is being conducted in an improper way, or at the incorrect time of the year.

Recognizes that, given the wide range in violations, the department of fish and wildlife needs a range of enforcement authorities. Minor offenses need to be dealt with as infractions with accompanying small fines, while serious offenses need to be prosecuted as gross misdemeanors.

Recognizes that, when violations lead to destruction of fish life and habitat, such actions must be expeditiously terminated, and that the violator must remediate the nonconforming site.

Seeks to provide the department with an increased range of enforcement authorities by directing that minor offenses be efficiently dealt with as civil infractions, and that orders may be issued to promptly stop work and provide for remediation at sites where violations of the hydraulic code are leading to the destruction of fish life and habitat.

Repeals RCW 77.55.140.