SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5407
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 Passed Senate, March 1, 2013
Title: An act relating to electronic filing of pollutant discharge elimination permit system applications.
Brief Description: Concerning electronic filing of pollutant discharge elimination permit system applications.
Sponsors: Senator Ericksen.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Energy, Environment & Telecommunications: 2/19/13 [DP].
Passed Senate: 3/01/13, 47-0.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Ericksen, Chair; Sheldon, Vice Chair; Ranker, Ranking Member; Billig, Brown, Chase, Cleveland, Honeyford and Litzow.
Staff: Jan Odano (786-7486)
Background: The federal Clean Water Act establishes the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which regulates waste water discharges from point sources to surface waters. NPDES permitting authority is delegated to the state, allowing the Department of Ecology (Ecology) to issue stormwater permits to cities and counties.
NPDES permits are required for anyone who discharges wastewater to surface waters or who has a significant potential to impact surface waters. NPDES permits are required for stormwater discharges from certain industries, construction sites of specified sizes, and municipalities operating municipal separate storm sewer systems that meet specified criteria.
Summary of Bill: Ecology must provide electronic filing for NPDES applications, updates, revisions to the applications, and data reporting. Ecology must develop any forms necessary for electronic filing.
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: Ecology is developing a database system for permits. The use of the system will be phased in as permits need to be renewed. There is currently a web portal for some some uses.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Don Seeberger, Ecology; Ben Buchholz, Dairygold Farms.