SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6941
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 Amended by House, March 4, 2008
Title: An act relating to a waste reduction and recycling awards program in K-12 schools.
Brief Description: Regarding private schools' participation in a waste reduction and recycling awards program.
Sponsors: Senators Fraser, Morton, Regala and Delvin.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Water, Energy & Telecommunications: 2/08/08 [DP].
Passed Senate: 2/14/08, 47-0.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON WATER, ENERGY & TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Rockefeller, Chair; Honeyford, Ranking Minority Member; Delvin, Fraser, Hatfield, Holmquist, Morton, Oemig and Regala.
Staff: Scott Boettcher (786-7416)
Background: Since the early-1990's, the Department of Ecology (Ecology) has offered financial awards to schools that achieve notable waste reduction and recycling successes. The awards program (Terry Husseman Sustainable Public School Awards program) is open to all public schools, grades kindergarten through 12; however, private schools are not eligible to participate. The awards program has been administered by Ecology with some support from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. Awards are meant to support school programs that sustain themselves or continue year after year, and focus on reducing waste, increasing recycling, and reducing threats from toxins.
Summary of Bill: Through the awards program, Ecology must encourage waste reduction and recycling in private schools. Private schools may implement waste reduction and recycling programs. Private schools participating in the program are eligible to receive awards in amounts up to $5,000.
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: PRO: It is important to encourage waste reduction and recycling in all schools, not just public schools. Any school in Washington that has implemented a waste reduction and recycling program should have the opportunity to apply for an award. It is important to educate all kids about being environmentally friendly, as they will be our future adults.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Jenny Hallengren, citizen/parent.
House Amendment(s): Provides Ecology with more flexibility and discretion in determining the number and dollar amounts of waste reduction and recycling awards.