| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Select Committee on Puget Sound | |
HB 1656
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Establishing the Puget Sound scientific research account.
Sponsors: Representatives Rolfes, Upthegrove, B. Sullivan, Appleton, Chase, Santos, Dickerson and Sells.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/31/07
Staff: Karen Rogers (786-7388).
Background:
Puget Sound is a 2,800-square-mile inland water connected to the Pacific Ocean via the Strait of
Juan de Fuca in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It extends from Admiralty Inlet in
the north, to Olympia, Washington, in the south. It includes open marine waters; inland marine
waters; Hood Canal, a glacially scoured fjord; numerous river and stream channels; and 2,500
miles of shoreline.
The Puget Sound Action Team (Action Team) is a partnership of state agencies and tribal and
local governments charged with developing and coordinating conservation programs to protect
and restore Puget Sound. The Action Team staff guide the implementation of the Puget Sound
Water Quality Management Plan, and work with tribal and local governments, community
groups, citizens and businesses, and state and federal agencies to develop and carry out 2-year
work plans. The Legislature created the PSAT in 1996.
Summary of Bill:
A Puget Sound scientific research account is created to fund research programs and projects to
protect and restore Puget Sound. The Action Team, or its successor agency, identifies gaps in
Puget Sound science, formulates a research plan to meet science gaps, and prioritizes projects.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 29, 2007.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.