HB 1605 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Finds that emissions from metal smelters, the use of lead arsenate pesticides, the combustion of leaded gasoline, and other sources have contributed to arsenic and lead soil contamination covering dispersed areas in the state.

Finds it in the public interest to expedite measures to protect children's health by increasing awareness of the potential for elevated levels of arsenic and lead contamination, conduct soil testing at schools and child care facilities, and provide technical and financial assistance to implement mitigation measures that reduce the risk of exposure.

Directs the department of ecology, in cooperation with the department of social and health services and the department of health, to establish an area-wide soil contamination school and child care facility certification program for schools and child care facilities within area-wide soil contamination zones to reduce the potential for children's exposure to area-wide soil contamination.

Provides that, if the superintendent or the board of directors of a school does not comply with the provisions of this act, any citizen in the school district or parent or guardian of a student in a school within an area-wide soil contamination zone has standing to seek enforcement of the requirements of this act in the superior court of the state of Washington in the county where the school is located.

Authorizes the department to enforce this act through remedial action orders under chapter 70.105D RCW.