SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6734

BYSenators Stratton, Benitz and Williams

Changing responsibilities of the state radiation control agency.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 3, 1988; February 5, 1988

Majority Report:     That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6734 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass and be referred to Ways & Means Committee.

     Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Madsen, Nelson, Stratton, Williams.

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7455)

                February 5, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, FEBRUARY 5, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is designated in statute as the state radiation control agency. Within DSHS, the Office of Radiation Protection is responsible for duties relating to radioactive waste surveillance, environmental monitoring of radiation, and monitoring public health uses of radiation.

The Legislature mandated additional responsibilities relating to Radiation Control in 1985.  These included a state-wide radiological baseline, an independent statewide monitoring program, comprehensive environmental monitoring programs as well as data collection and research on diseases caused by ionizing radiation.  The funding for these programs was tied to the amount of low-level radioactive waste disposed at the Hanford site.  Disposal volumes have dropped significantly since 1985, resulting in a shortfall of funds to complete the Legislative mandate.

Federal legislation allows the state to impose surcharges on low-level waste which is disposed in Washington and originates outside an eight state region.  Beginning January 1, 1988, the surcharge totals $20 per cubic foot, increased from $10 per cubic foot.  The state retains 75 percent of this surcharge.

Concern has been raised over the amount of radon which may be present within residences in the state.  In addition, there are liability questions regarding state involvement with radon studies.

SUMMARY:

Until June 30, 1991, the state radiation control agency may continue the duties mandated in 1985.  If funding is appropriated, the agency shall begin or contract a study of radon levels within state residences by July 31, 1988.  The state shall be immune from liability in the event of an inaccurate radon study.

Twenty percent of the monies retained from surcharges on out- of-region radioactive waste shall fund the activities of the state radiation control agency.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

A redundant reference to remaining surcharge monies is deleted.  Clarification is made to surcharge monies as those which are retained by the state.

Appropriation:  $900,000

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested

Senate Committee - Testified:   Thelma Struck, DSHS; Barry Bede, U.S. Ecology