SB 6173-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 2/17/04)

Finds that new public-use airport development projects may result in unavoidable impacts to storm water runoff or wetlands that require mitigation. Storm water and wetland mitigation that attracts or sustains hazardous wildlife on or near public-use airports can significantly increase the potential for wildlife-aircraft collisions.

Declares an intent that regulatory decisions by the departments of ecology and fish and wildlife regarding storm water and wetland mitigation resulting from public-use airport development projects should, to the maximum extent allowable under federal and state law, be compatible with safe airport operations.

Provides that, when making a permit or other regulatory decision under the guidance of chapter 90.74 RCW relating to the infrastructure development needs of public-use airports, the departments of ecology and fish and wildlife shall consider the compatibility of the permit condition or regulatory decision with the aircraft and airport operational safety requirements of the federal aviation administration. The departments of ecology and fish and wildlife may not require an airport operating under the authority of chapter 14.08 RCW to engage in land uses that are incompatible with the federal aviation administration's recommended land use practices relating to aircraft and airport operational safety.