SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5997

BYSenators Benitz and Rasmussen

Empowering this state to charge fees for overseeing cleanup activities at Hanford.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 21, 1989

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7455)

AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Defense materials production at Hanford for several decades has resulted in a large accumulation of nuclear waste on the site.  Federal laws give the state a role in overseeing the cleanup of some of this waste.

SUMMARY:

Following the signing of an enforceable agreement with a regulated entity, the Department of Ecology is authorized to assess a service charge for the disposal of mixed waste.  Mixed waste is defined to include dangerous or extremely hazardous waste which has a non-radioactive hazardous component and a radioactive component.  Facilities that store, treat, incinerate, dispose of mixed waste or are undergoing closure may be assessed charges.  Ecology may adopt rules specific to mixed waste.

Appropriation:    $2,653,903

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      requested February 21, 1989

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