FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 1597

                                  C 223 L 90

BYHouse Committee on State Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Patrick, Tate, Sayan, Bowman, Nelson, Todd, Brumsickle and Rust)

Establishing a geologists' review board.

House Committe on State Government

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Geologists lend expertise to engineering projects, ground water inspections, land use planning, mineral exploration and development, and geologic and seismic hazards determinations. Nineteen states currently regulate professional geologists.  Oregon, for example, requires that anyone professionally preparing geologic maps, plans, or reports be registered by the State Board of Geologist Examiners.  Registrants must meet a number of educational and experience requirements and pass an examination prepared by the board.

Washington does not regulate professional geologists.  When geologic reports or plans are required to determine the stability of a construction site with respect to landslides, drainage problems, or seismic hazards, counties and cities often rely on the expertise of registered civil engineers with a specialty in geotechnical engineering.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature finds that it may be in the public interest to establish qualifications for the practice of geological work.

The Department of Licensing (DOL) will conduct an evaluation of professional geological work to determine the extent to which the state should regulate its practice.  DOL is to consult and cooperate with professional associations directly involved with the practice of geology.  DOL's findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Legislature by December 1, 1990.

If DOL finds it to be in the public interest to regulate the practice of professional geological work, it will prepare a legislative proposal to implement regulation.  The proposal may include:  definitions and criteria for qualification and practice as a professional geologist in Washington, provisions creating a professional geologist board, powers and responsibilities for the board, and a system of reciprocity for professional geologists registered in other states.

The provisions expire June 30, 1991.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 95   0

      Senate    48     1 (Senate amended)

      House 91   0 (House concurred)

EFFECTIVE:June 7, 1990