HB 1605-S2.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Finds that state and local agencies are currently implementing actions to reduce children's exposure to soils that contain hazardous substances. The legislature further finds that it is in the public interest to enhance those efforts in western Washington in areas located within the central Puget Sound smelter plume.

Directs the department, in cooperation with the department of social and health services, the department of health, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, and local health districts, to assist schools and child care facilities west of the crest of the Cascade mountains to reduce the potential for children's exposure to area-wide soil contamination.

Requires the department to: (1) Identify schools and child care facilities that are located within the central Puget Sound smelter plume based on available information;

(2) Conduct qualitative evaluations to determine the potential for children's exposure to area-wide soil contamination;

(3) If the qualitative evaluation determines that children may be routinely exposed to area-wide soil contamination at a property, conduct soil samples at that property by December 31, 2009; and

(4) If soil sample results confirm the presence of area-wide soil contamination, notify schools and child care facilities regarding the test results and the steps necessary for implementing best management practices.

Authorizes the department to recognize schools and child care facilities that successfully implement best management practices with a voluntary certification letter confirming that the facility has successfully implemented best management practices.

Requires the department to evaluate actions to reduce child exposure to contaminated soils and submit progress reports to the governor and to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 31, 2006, and December 31, 2008.

Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.