Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Housing Committee

HB 3141

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 sustainable residential weatherization for low-income households.

Sponsors: Representatives Liias, Chase, Ericks, Loomis, Rolfes, Miloscia, Upthegrove, Appleton, Dickerson, Kenney and Ormsby.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Directs the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (DCTED) to promote the use of sustainable technologies that are environmentally friendly in its low-income housing programs, including the Weatherization program.

Hearing Date: 1/28/08

Staff: Robyn Dupuis (786-7166).

Background:

The Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (DCTED) operates the state Weatherization program which contracts with community non-profit agencies to make cost effective energy conservation improvements on low-income homes in order to reduce the utility costs of low-income families. On average, the weatherization of homes reduces home energy costs by 25 percent.

Weatherization services provided include:
(a) ceiling, wall, floor and duct insulation;
(b) diagnostically driven air sealing to close gaps where the home's heat can escape; and
(c) heating system efficiency modifications.

The Weatherization program is funded through federal, state and private sources.

Summary of Bill:

DCTED Weatherization Program
The DCTED must choose amongst proposals from agencies interested in participating in the DCTED Weatherization program so as to:
(a) achieve the greatest possible energy savings by low-income households over the greatest period of time;
(b) promote the greatest possible health and safety improvements for residents of low-income households; and
(c) leverage, to the extent possible, technologically advanced and environmentally friendly sustainable technologies, practices, and designs.

The DCTED must encourage the utilization of fuels representing energy efficient sustainable technologies through the Weatherization program.

DCTED Housing Programs
The DCTED is directed to continually strive, through all of its housing programs, to be a state leader in promoting and utilizing technologically advanced and environmentally friendly sustainable technologies, practices, and designs.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested 1/29/08.

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