SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6236

BYSenators Metcalf and Owen; by request of Department of Ecology

Changing provisions relating to the state water pollution control agency's authority.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 20, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

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

Senate Staff:Gary Wilburn (786-7453)

                  January 25, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, JANUARY 20, 1988

BACKGROUND:

In 1983 the Legislature designated the Department of Ecology as the State Water Pollution Control Agency for purposes of the federal Clean Water Act, including authority to participate in programs of the federal act as well as to take all action necessary to receive benefits to the state and meet requirements of the federal law.  The federal law was amended in 1987, providing new requirements applicable to programs administered by the states.  These include changes to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES program), revisions in the financial assistance programs for water quality activities, new requirements for reducing toxic pollutants and developing nonpoint pollution management programs, and other requirements.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Ecology is authorized to administer programs under the federal Clean Water Act as it exists on February 4, 1987.  The Department is to exercise its responsibility jointly with the Puget Sound water quality authority with respect to the national estuary program established under the federal law.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Bob Monn, Department of Ecology; Betty Tabbut, Washington Environmental Council