SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1249

BYRepresentatives Rust, D. Sommers, G. Fisher, May, Anderson, S. Wilson, Kremen, Pruitt, Valle, Winsley, Jones, K. Wilson, O'Brien, Locke, Brekke, Phillips, Spanel, Heavey and Miller

Addressing plastic debris in marine environments.

House Committe on Environmental Affairs

Rereferred House Committee on Appropriations

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 22, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Bauer, Benitz, Kreidler, Owen, Patterson, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Barry Brandon (786-7717)

                  March 22, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, MARCH 22, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The amount of plastic debris found on coastal beaches and in the open ocean has increased dramatically over the past decade. Plastics enter the marine environment by direct dumping from ships and offshore platforms, abandonment of plastic fishing equipment, and movement from land-based sources through storm action.  Most plastics resist natural decay and persist in the marine environment for long periods of time.  Ocean currents in the North Pacific contribute to high concentrations of marine plastic debris on the Washington State coast.  Plastic debris in the marine environment contributes to coastal litter accumulation, may injure or kill marine animals when ingested or by entanglement, and can cause damage to marine vessels and equipment.

In February, 1988, the Department of Natural Resources created the Marine Plastic Debris Task Force in order to develop a state action plan to address the growing pollution problem in the waters of Washington.  The task force was inspired by federal legislation which prevents the dumping of plastic into the nation's coastal waters and a recognition that these persistent materials ultimately pollute aquatic lands of the state.  The task force was comprised of representatives from federal, state and local governments and agencies as well as private business and citizens organizations.  The task force submitted a marine plastic debris action plan to the state in October of 1988.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to coordinate implementation of the Marine Plastic Debris Task Force action plan in conjunction with state agencies by: (1) adopting necessary rules for the prevention and cleanup of marine pollution caused by plastic and other marine debris; (2) entering into agreements with federal or state agencies and coordinating agency responsibilities; (3) contracting with interested parties to act as an information clearinghouse for marine plastic debris issues; (4) hiring necessary employees to carry out the action plan; and (5) accepting and disbursing grants and other gifts.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Effective Date:The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.

Senate Committee - Testified: Representative Nancy Rust (pro)