SENATE BILL REPORT
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.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Consumer Protection & Housing, February 28, 2008
Title: An act relating to sustainable residential weatherization for low-income households.
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 History: Passed House: 2/06/08, 90-2.
Committee Activity: Consumer Protection & Housing: 2/28/08 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION & HOUSING
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Weinstein, Chair; Kauffman, Vice Chair; Honeyford, Ranking Minority Member; Delvin, Haugen, Jacobsen, Kilmer, McCaslin and Tom.
Staff: Alison Mendiola (786-7483)
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: (1) ceiling, wall,
floor, and duct insulation; (2) diagnostically driven air sealing to close gaps where the home's heat
can escape; and (3) heating system efficiency modifications.
The Weatherization Program is funded through federal, state, and private sources.
Summary of Bill: The DCTED Weatherization Program. The DCTED must choose amongst
proposals from agencies interested in participating in the Weatherization Program so as to: (1)
achieve the greatest possible energy savings by low-income households over the greatest period
of time; (2) promote the greatest possible health and safety improvements for residents of low-income households; and (3) 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.
The DCTED Housing Programs. The DCTED is directed to continually strive, through all of its
housing programs, to be a leader within the state in promoting and utilizing technologically
advanced and environmentally friendly sustainable technologies, practices, and designs.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.
Persons Testifying: No one.