HB 2207 - DIGEST

Provides that, to demonstrate that the best available science has been included in the development of critical areas policies and regulations, counties and cities must address each of the following on the record: (1) The specific policies and development regulations adopted to protect the functions and values of the critical areas at issue;

(2) The relevant sources of best available scientific information included in the decision making; and

(3) Any nonscientific information, including legal, social, cultural, economic, and political information, used as a basis for critical area policies and regulations.

Provides that if a county or city elects to adopt a critical area policy or regulation that is outside the range that best available science alone would support because another goal or requirement of chapter 36.70A RCW cannot otherwise be achieved, the county or city must: (1) Identify the information in the record that supports its decision to depart from science-based recommendations;

(2) Explain its rationale for departing from science-based recommendations;

(3) Identify potential risks to the functions and values of the critical area or areas at issue and any additional measures chosen to limit such risks; and

(4) Identify evidence in the record that shows the departure is necessary to achieve the goals or requirements of this chapter.

Provides that, if a county or city adopts a policy or regulation under this act, the county or city must minimize risk and employ monitoring and adaptive management and any other components necessary to confirm whether the approach used is adequately protecting the functions and values of that critical area, and adjust the approach as necessary to ensure protection of critical area functions and values.