SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6622

BYSenator Fleming

Modifying the distribution of state funds to protect aquifers.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1988

Senate Staff:Henry Yates (786-7708)

AS OF FEBRUARY 5, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Legislature approved ESSB 4519 in 1986.  The measure provides $40 to $45 million annually for water quality projects and activities including grants and loans to local governments for building sewage treatment facilities and addressing other water quality efforts.  The funds come from a tax on cigarettes.  The money is to be allocated geographically and based on specific problems such as groundwater contamination, nonpoint source pollution, etc.

Twenty percent of the funds are to be used to prevent or mitigate pollution of underground waters and to construct facilities that protect federally designated sole-source aquifers.  At least two-thirds of this amount is to be used for the Spokane-Rathdrum Aquifer.  Four other aquifers are located in Whidbey Island, Camano Island, Cross Valley (north King and south central Snohomish Counties) and Newburg (central Snohomish County).

The Department of Ecology has indicated that it will phase out its grant program and institute a combination grant/loan structure.  The agency has not yet developed a specific schedule to do this.  Many local governments have complained about the agency going to a loan program.

SUMMARY:

All funds provided under the Water Pollution Control Facilities (RCW 70.146) for sole-source aquifers are to be in the form of grants.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 2, 1988