SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1684

BYHouse Committee on Environmental Affairs (originally sponsored by Representatives Sprenkle, May, Rust, Pruitt, D. Sommers, Cooper, Walker, Unsoeld, Nelson, Brekke, Ferguson, Todd and Spanel)

Establishing an analysis process for management of certain categories of solid waste.

House Committe on Environmental Affairs

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 17, 1988; February 24, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Smith, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, DeJarnatt, Kreidler, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Rick Anderson (786-7717)

                  February 24, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 24, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The 1987 Legislature established the Joint Select Committee on Preferred Solid Waste Management to determine why higher rates or waste reduction and recycling have not been achieved and to develop appropriate recommendations.  The committee will cease to exist on July 1, 1988.

The committee's interim report includes a recommendation that the Department of Ecology study the waste stream to identify the major categories of waste, where they are generated, and how they are being managed.  The committee also recommended that the department determine the best management alternative for each category of waste.  Once this information is gathered, the committee has plans to assess the need for statutory or regulatory changes.  The committee also recommends extending the duration of its term for an additional year.

SUMMARY:

The department shall determine the best management practice for various categories of solid waste.  In order to make this determination, the department shall conduct a comprehensive waste stream analysis and evaluation.  The evaluation must first determine the waste management method that has the least environmental impact. The department shall then consider costs and market availability before determining the appropriate management strategy.  Certain waste categories must be evaluated by January 1, 1989, and others by January 1, 1990.  The evaluation is to be updated annually. 

The department is to present a proposed work plan to the Joint Select Committee on Preferred Solid Waste Management by July 1, 1988.  The department will present a report to the appropriate standing committees of the Legislature by January 1, 1989.

The expiration date for the Joint Select Committee on Preferred Solid Waste Management is extended from July 1, 1988, to July 1, 1989.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

The department and the Utilities and Transportation Commission are added to the advisory committee for the Joint Select Committee to Preferred Solid Waste Management.

A provision to consider economic impacts when evaluating management methods is added.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 22, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Nancy Pearson, WCFR (for); Wally Toner, Bayside Disposal; Ron Main, King County