| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Select Committee on Environmental Health | |
HB 2318
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: Concerning inequities in the location of certain facilities in low-income or minority neighborhoods.
Sponsors: Representatives Hasegawa, Hudgins, Santos, Ormsby and Moeller.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/27/07
Staff: Amy McCormick (786-7290).
Background:
Minority and economically disadvantaged populations are known to have poorer health status
than the overall population and have higher rates of a variety of diseases, including cancers and
asthma. Many complex factors interact to produce health disparities among minority and
low-income populations. These factors include behavioral choices, nutrition, access to medical
care, and genetic predisposition. Environmental and occupational exposures also contribute to
poorer health status.
Several state agencies, including the Department of Health, the Department of Ecology, and the
Department of Transportation, have issued reports, guidelines, or recommendations for
addressing environmental health and justice issues.
Summary of Bill:
The Legislature finds that certain sites or facilities may negatively impact human health.
Minority and economically disadvantaged populations are known to have poorer health status
than the overall population. Reducing the potential for exposure to environmental health hazards
is important to protect human health, safety, and the environment.
No more than an aggregate total of twenty-five of a list of thirty-one facilities or conditions may
exist or be located within an area with a five-mile radius. Examples of the facilities or conditions
include airports, fuel farms, EPA superfund sites, oil pipelines, and sex offender facilities. If a
five-mile area already has existing facilities or conditions that total more than twenty-five, no
additional facilities or conditions may be added to that area.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Preliminary fiscal note available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.