SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6168
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 January 19, 2012
Title: An act relating to setting a deadline for developing guidance for the siting of renewable energy facilities in the state's marine waters.
Brief Description: Setting a deadline for developing guidance for the siting of renewable energy facilities in the state's marine waters.
Sponsors: Senators Ranker, Litzow, Hargrove, Hatfield and Shin.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Energy, Natural Resources & Marine Waters: 1/18/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, NATURAL RESOURCES & MARINE WATERS |
Staff: William Bridges (786-7416)
Background: State Position on Renewable Energy Facilities in Coastal and Marine Waters. In 2010 the Legislature required the Department of Commerce (Commerce) to develop guidance for all state agencies for achieving a unified state position on the siting and operation of renewable energy facilities in the state's coastal and estuarine marine waters. In developing the guidance, Commerce was required to consult with agencies with primary responsibilities for permitting and management of marine waters and bedlands, including the following: departments of Natural Resources, Ecology, Transportation, and Fish and Wildlife; the State Parks and Recreation Commission; the Puget Sound Partnership; and the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council. Commerce was also required to consult and incorporate relevant information from the regional activities related to renewable energy siting in marine waters, including those under the West Coast Governors' Agreement on Ocean Health.
The 2010 directive to Commerce was subject to federal, private, or other nonstate funding. Commerce was required to adopt the guidance within one year of securing such funding.
Summary of Bill: Requiring Commerce to Develop Guidance on Renewable Energy Facilities in Coastal and Marine Waters by December 31, 2012. The requirement that Commerce adopt guidance on the siting and operation of renewable energy facilities within one year of securing funding is removed. The guidance must now be complete by December 31, 2012.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 16, 2012.
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.