SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6520

BYSenators Lee, Talmadge, Anderson, Sutherland, Patrick, Thorsness, Barr, McMullen, Williams and Bauer

Giving the department of health responsibility for matters relating to nonionizing radiation.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 26, 1990; January 30, 1990

Majority Report:     Do pass.

     Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Metcalf, Owen, Patrick, Stratton.

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7455)

                February 10, 1990

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 9, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The Office of Radiation Protection within the Department of Health is the state agency primarily responsible for regulating and tracking issues related to ionizing radiation.

Presently no state agency has specific authority to follow issues relating to non-ionizing radiation.  Sources of non-ionizing radiation include electric power lines, electric blankets, ultrasound equipment and laser lights.

There is some evidence that exposure to certain levels of non-ionizing radiation may cause health effects.

SUMMARY:

The Office of Radiation Protection is designated as the lead state agency responsible for following the issues surrounding non-ionizing radiation.  The Office of Radiation Protection is directed to:  concentrate on issues surrounding electric and magnetic fields; serve as a state clearinghouse for information on this topic; maintain current information on studies pertaining to the health effects of non-ionizing radiation; and to periodically inform other state agencies regarding this topic.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested January 24, 1990

Senate Committee - Testified:   Senator Lee, prime sponsor; Senator Talmadge; Terry Strong (DOH); Thomas Manley, CAOPL