SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5871
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 of February 23, 2007
Title: An act relating to the addition of an energy element for comprehensive planning under the growth management act.
Brief Description: Addressing the required elements for comprehensive planning under the growth management act.
Sponsors: Senators Kline and Pridemore.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/26/07.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS
Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)
Background: Jurisdictions planning under the Growth Management Act (GMA) must adopt
internally consistent comprehensive land use plans, which are generalized, coordinated land use
policy statements of the governing body. Comprehensive plans must satisfy requirements for
specified "elements," each of which is a subset of a comprehensive plan.
There are currently eight elements to be addressed in comprehensive plans: a land use element;
a housing element; a capital facilities plan element; a utilities element; a rural element; a
transportation element; an economic development element; and a park and recreation element.
Any new or amended elements required by law are to be adopted concurrent with the scheduled
update for the planning jurisdiction. Funds sufficient to cover applicable local government costs
must be appropriated and distributed by the state to local governments when new or amended
elements are required.
Summary of Bill: An energy element is added to the list of elements to be included in the
comprehensive plans of cities and counties planning under the GMA. The energy element must
include strategies for reducing a community's overall energy demand and consumption;
minimizing and mitigating a community's dependence on carbon-based fuel; and integrating
energy efficient and renewable energy-based technologies and systems into the community.
The energy element must also include a carbon scorecard that tracks a community's fuel
consumption patterns; recommendations for updating codes and guidelines; strategies for
improving access and use of transit and non-motorized travel; and a list of incentives and a
funding plan for implementing relevant strategies.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 10, 2007.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.