Brief Description: Creating a flood damage assistance and relief program.

Sponsors: Representatives Buck, Alexander, Kristiansen and Pearson.

Hearing Date: 1/31/06

Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117).

Background:

The Department of Ecology (Department) has the authority to take emergency actions during drought conditions that are designed to alleviate hardships and reduce burdens on various water users. During the most recent drought conditions, the Department used this authority, together with a legislative appropriation, to fund compensation for public bodies for projects that provided drought relief for public safety, drinking water supplies, agricultural activities, and fish survival.

The State Treasury manages the State Drought Preparedness Account to fund these activities and other activities addressing drought impacts.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development (DCTED) is required to establish a flood damage relief program. The program must provide financial assistance to individuals, businesses, and local governments that have experienced flood damage requiring cleanup or emergency repairs.

The DCTED is responsible for establishing criteria for awarding grants under the relief program. The criteria must include financial need, the extend of flood damage sustained, and the availability of other funds.

The relief program will be initially funded through an appropriation of $1.6 million from the State Drought Preparedness Account.

Appropriation: The sum of $1.6 million from the State Drought Preparedness Account.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.