HB 1639 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

Finds that, while substantial progress has been made in protecting Washington's environment, more is now known about the significant effects of development along the state's shorelines.

Declares an intent to provide the tools necessary to address the evolving understanding of measures needed to maintain and, when required, enhance water quality for Washington's marine shorelines while accommodating appropriate development consistent with city and county comprehensive plans.

Finds the approach taken in the growth management act will protect our marine waters and assist counties, cities, and the public.

Declares an intent that the provisions of this act be implemented by counties and cities according to the schedule specified in RCW 36.70A.130.

Requires cities and counties to consider the following when preparing comprehensive plans and development regulations according to this act and when reviewing comprehensive plans and development regulations according to RCW 36.70A.130: (1) Measures to maintain or improve water quality and habitat;

(2) Effects of proposed land use patterns on basic hydrologic functions and on surface and ground water quality, including downstream water bodies;

(3) Land use measures to maintain and, when required, enhance existing hydrologic functions, considering the entire river or stream basin, and to maintain surface and ground water quality, surface water quantity, and ground waters used for potable water or irrigation; and

(4) Measures to maintain and, when required, enhance existing hydrologic functions, including consideration of predevelopment peak flows and summer and fall surface and ground water flows.