FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 5300

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.

Background: In 2005 the Legislature enacted High-Performance Building Standards requiring all major facility projects funded in the capital budget, or projects financed through a financing contract as established by law, to be designed, constructed, and certified to at least the United States Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) Silver standard. This requirement applies to any entity, including public agencies and public school districts, although the school districts may use the Washington Sustainable School Design Protocol.

The stated purpose of the standard is to improve the built environment and emphasize design and construction practices that reduce energy consumption and water use, improve indoor air quality, and minimize the impact on the natural environment.

LEED™ is a fee-based third-party certification. It is based on a point system, focusing on six major areas: sustainable sites; water efficiency; energy and atmosphere; materials and resources; indoor environmental quality; and innovation and design process. LEED™ certification has four ranks: LEED™ Certified, LEED™ Silver, LEED™ Gold, and LEED™ Platinum.

LEED™ and the related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used with permission.

Summary: When determining compliance with the requirement for a project to be designed, constructed, and certified to at least the LEED™ Silver standard, the Department of General Administration and the Superintendent of Public Instruction must credit one additional point for a project that uses wood products with a third party certification or from forests regulated under Washington's Forest Practices Act.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	46	2
House	95	2