Title: An act relating to authorizing extension or expansion of sewage treatment systems in rural areas when necessary to address Hood Canal concerns.

Brief Description: Authorizing extension or expansion of sewage treatment systems in rural areas when necessary to address Hood Canal concerns.

Sponsors: House Committee on Select Committee on Hood Canal (originally sponsored by Representatives McCoy, Eickmeyer, Chase, Wallace, Blake, Linville, Morrell, Upthegrove, Appleton and Hunt).

Brief History: Passed House: 3/11/05, 57-37.

Committee Activity: Water, Energy & Environment: 3/23/05.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WATER, ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT

Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)

Background: The Puget Sound Action Team (PSAT) develops and coordinates water quality programs in Puget Sound. The Hood Canal Coordinating Council (HCCC) is a group of county and tribal governments established to address water quality problems and natural resource issues in the Hood Canal watershed. In May 2004, the PSAT and HCCC issued a report assessing human-influenced nitrogen sources in Hood Canal. The report identified six major sources, including human sewage, and recommended corrective actions.

Summary of Bill: The Puget Sound Action Team (PSAT) must assess the effectiveness of nitrogen treatment provided by currently approved and alternative on-site sewage treatment technologies. The PSAT may consult with federal, state, tribal, and local agencies in conducting the assessment. By December 1, 2005, the PSAT must submit a report documenting its findings to the legislature.

In consultation with local and state health agencies, the PSAT must also conduct an inventory of on-site sewage systems operating in the Hood Canal watershed and submit the inventory to the legislature by December 1, 2006.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For: This legislation is a necessary step in establishing an inspection system for on-site sewage systems to reduce nitrates in Hood Canal originating from failing on-site sewage systems.

Testimony Against: None.

Who Testified: PRO: Rep. McCoy, prime sponsor.

CON: None.