SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2389

BYRepresentatives G. Fisher, D. Sommers, Rust, Jacobsen, Crane, Valle, Pruitt, Rayburn, P. King, Rector, Phillips and Ferguson; by request of Department of Ecology

Regulating transporting waste material.

House Committe on Environmental Affairs

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 20, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

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

Senate Staff:Atsushi Kiuchi (786-7708)

                  February 20, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 20, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Littering continues to increase in this state.  The Department of Ecology estimates that 40 percent of the littering is caused by loose materials falling from unsecured loads and from open vehicles.  Currently there are safety requirements under RCW 46.61.655, the state's "rules of the road," but they do not address health and environmental problems caused by materials spilling onto roads and highways.

SUMMARY:

Spilling of litter is unlawful under the state Model Litter Control Act.  Effective January 1, 1991, vehicle operators shall have their vehicle loads secured or covered when carrying waste materials.

The Department of Ecology shall initiate a public information program beginning August 1, 1990, on the vehicle litter spillage requirements.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

Construction debris, including asphalt, sand, gravel and aggregate materials are not subject to enforcement under the state's model litter control laws.  The state "rules of the road," Chapter 46.61, are not affected.

Senate Committee - Testified: Bill Alkire, Department of Ecology (pro); Duke Schaub, Associated General Contractors (pro)