SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6314

BYSenators Metcalf, Owen and Rasmussen; by request of Department of Ecology

Regulating transporting waste material.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 17, 1990; January 24, 1990

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6314 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

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

Senate Staff:Atsushi Kiuchi (786-7708)

                  January 26, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, JANUARY 24, 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.  Current safety requirements, the state's "rules of the road," do not address health and environmental problems caused by materials spilling onto roads and highways.

SUMMARY:

The state Model Litter Control Act is amended effective January 1, 1991 to require vehicle operators to have their 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.  A misdemeanor penalty not to exceed $50 for each offense is authorized.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

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

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Terry Husseman, Department of Ecology (for)