Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Select Committee on Environmental Health

HB 2581

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: Developing a statewide radiological baseline.

Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins and Chase.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires Department of Health to establish a statewide radiological baseline.

Hearing Date: 1/29/08

Staff: Ashley Pedersen (786-7303).

Background:

The Department of Health (DOH) is designated in statute as the State Radiation Control Agency. Within the DOH, the Office of Radiation Protection is responsible for duties relating to radioactive waste surveillance, environmental monitoring of radiation, and monitoring public health uses of radiation.

The Legislature mandated additional responsibilities relating to Radiation Control in 1985. These included a statewide radiological baseline, an independent statewide monitoring program, comprehensive environmental monitoring programs, as well as data collection and research on diseases caused by ionizing radiation. The DOH has already begun development of a statewide radiological baseline, but needs additional funding to complete the statewide baseline.

Summary of Bill:

The DOH is required to continue development of a statewide radiological baseline. The DOH must establish radiological baselines for Bellingham, Ellensburg, Olympia, Port Angeles, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Wenatchee, and Yakima.

The baselines must include taking at least 30 radiological measurements per city listed above. The DOH must prepare a report and place the report online for public availability by January 1, 2009. The report must include an analysis of the data obtained, a summary of the findings, and an interpretation of the findings.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 25, 2008.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.