HB 1020-S.E - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds that section 1221 of the national energy policy act also authorizes a state siting authority, in those instances where applicants seek a federal construction permit otherwise authorized pursuant to section 1221 of the act, to assert jurisdiction on the basis of existing state regulatory authority.

Finds that section 1221 of the national energy policy act further authorizes a state siting authority to approve the siting of facilities or consider the interstate benefits to be achieved by proposed construction or modification as provided for in section 1221(b)(1)(A)(i)-(ii) of the act or other provisions of the act, or rules and regulations implementing the act, and to convey the views and recommendations regarding the need for and impact of a transmission facility where the federal energy regulatory commission is determined to have jurisdiction.

Declares that the council is designated as the state authority for purposes of siting transmission facilities under the national energy policy act of 2005 and for purposes of other such rules or regulations that may be adopted by the secretary. The council's authority regarding transmission facilities is limited to those transmission facilities that are the subject of section 1221 of the national energy policy act and chapter 80.50 RCW.