Brief Description: Limiting the disclosure of energy infrastructure information.

Sponsors: Representatives Morris, Hudgins and B. Sullivan.

Hearing Date: 1/11/06

Staff: Kasa Tupua (786-7291).

Background:

The Public Disclosure Act requires all state and local government agencies to make all public records available for public inspection and copying unless the records lie within specific statutory exemptions. The provisions that require public records disclosure must be interpreted liberally and the exceptions narrowly in order to effect a general policy that supports disclosure.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) regulates the rates, services, and practices of privately owned utilities and transportation companies. In 2000, the legislature passed the Pipeline Safety Act (PSA) which requires the WUTC to collect location information and maps of pipelines from hazardous liquid pipeline companies, and gas pipeline companies with interstate pipelines, commercial gas pipelines, or gas transmission pipelines.

Additionally, the PSA requires the commission to evaluate and consolidate the information and maps into a statewide geographic information system (GIS). The GIS is made available to one-number locator services, which are services through which a person may request field-marking of underground facilities.

Summary of Bill:

The GIS mapping data that contains the location and selected attributes of gas transmission, hazardous liquid transmission pipelines, and liquified natural gas facilities is exempt from public disclosure except to pipeline operators, first responders, local governments, and one-number locator services.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Section 1 of the act expires July 1, 2006. Section 2 of the act takes effect July 1, 2006.