1490-S AMH NELS MOET 360

SHB 1490 - H AMD TO H AMD (H-2585.4/09) 426

By Representative Nelson

NOT CONSIDERED 4/26/2009

    On page 1 of the striking amendment, strike all material after line 2 and insert the following:

    "NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.  (1) The legislature recognizes that land use and transportation decisions can significantly affect the emissions levels of greenhouse gases.  Thoughtful and deliberate planning actions that consider the relationship between land use and transportation, while also being mindful of associated impacts upon affordable housing needs, are both challenging and essential.  Furthermore, the legislature recognizes that, in addition to responding to present day emissions issues, it must be equally dedicated to enacting broad, prospective strategies.  In doing so, the legislature will better enable current Washingtonians and future generations to enjoy the dividends resulting from fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and healthy, economically vibrant communities.

    (2) In recognition of the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through land use and transportation requirements, and the resulting implementation actions of counties, cities, and others, the legislature intends to establish new land use and transportation provisions, while simultaneously granting certain jurisdictions two additional years to meet existing planning requirements.  In granting jurisdictions with the earliest pending review and revision deadlines under the growth management act two additional years to comply with these obligations, the legislature intends to promote the successful implementation of initial efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through comprehensive planning actions.

    (3) The legislature endorses the policy recommendations of the land use and climate change advisory committee established by chapter 289, Laws of 2008 for the purpose of reducing land use and transportation related greenhouse gas emissions. 

    (4) The legislature finds that transit-oriented development should be encouraged at major transit stations, and that this development should provide for no net loss of affordable housing, an adequate supply of housing affordable to low and moderate-income households, and the promotion of mixed-use and mixed-income communities and developments.

    (5) The legislature finds that regional transportation plans for urban counties should address the vehicle miles traveled reduction goals for the state that are established in RCW 47.01.440.  The legislature finds also that county and city comprehensive plans should support these regional transportation plans.

    (6) The legislature finds that regional transit authorities and public transportation benefit areas may donate air rights and surplus property to encourage the development of transit-oriented communities, increase transit ridership, and provide for affordable housing. 

    (7) The legislature finds that transit-oriented housing funds to assist in financing qualifying housing projects should be authorized.

    (8) The legislature finds that transit-oriented communities can help achieve these intended purposes and for these reasons they are beneficial to the residents of Washington state."

    Correct the title.

EFFECT:  Removes all provisions of the underlying striking amendment and inserts additional intent language. 

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