HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 1405

BYRepresentatives Valle, Fuhrman, Anderson, Heavey, Jacobsen and Lux

Directing dissemination of information on earthquake hazards by the department of community development.

House Committe on State Government

Majority Report:  Do pass with amendment.  (7)

      Signed by Representatives H. Sommers, Chair; Anderson, Vice Chair; Baugher, Chandler, Hankins, O'Brien and Taylor.

House Staff:Ken Conte (786-7135)

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT JANUARY 28, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Washington State Seismic Safety Council was formed in 1985 as an advisory group to the Department of Emergency Management, which is now a division of the Department of Community Development.  The Council was asked to suggest methods to educate the public about earthquakes, recommend goals and priorities, and gather and analyze information about earthquakes.

The Council's final report was issued upon its termination in September 1986 and found that significant seismic hazards in much of Washington State create a potential for major loss of life and property.  The report also noted that state actions to address seismic hazards have been sporadic, and that informational, legal, and fiscal barriers constrain state action.

The Council recommended the state take action to:  (1) Call attention to seismic risks; (2) support research and disseminate information necessary to improve state and local risk reduction programs; (3) ensure the structural integrity of public facilities; and (4) establish the necessary authority for facilitating public and private sector action in averting earthquake losses.

SUMMARY:

BILL AS AMENDED:  The Department of Community Development is to gather and disseminate information on the impact of earthquakes and methods by which people and property may be protected in the event of an earthquake.  The Department shall also work to increase the public's awareness of the potential for an earthquake affecting Washington State.

AMENDED BILL COMPARED TO ORIGINAL:  The amendment deletes the requirement that the Department file an annual report to the Governor and Legislature.

Appropriation:    $30,000 to the Department of Community Development.

Fiscal Note:      Requested January 22, 1988.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Representative Georgette Valle, prime sponsor; Carole Martens, School Earthquake Education Program; Linda Noson, State Seismologist; and Bill Lokey, Supervisor for Pierce County Emergency Management.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    Washington is exposed to significant hazards from earthquakes and it is important that the public has proper lifesaving information.  There is currently a lack of appropriate information and commitment coming from state agencies regarding earthquake hazards.  Passage of the bill would make Washington eligible for matching funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.