FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6771

                              C 138 L 90

BYSenate Committee on Energy & Utilities (originally sponsored by Senators Lee, Talmadge, Anderson, McMullen and Patrick)

Studying the placement of electric transmission lines and magnetic fields.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

House Committe on Energy & Utilities

Rereferred House Committee on Appropriations

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

In the past several years there has been an increase in the public discussion over the possibility of health effects from electric and magnetic fields.  One common source of these fields is electric power lines.

Several major studies are now in progress in an attempt to better document the potential health effects of these fields.  There appears to be a growing consensus that setting standards for exposure to these fields would be premature until the results of the studies are known.

At the same time, growing areas need to be served by additional electric power lines.  Because of the different properties of electric and magnetic fields, the location of the line can be a major factor in the amount and type of public exposure to these fields.

SUMMARY:

A task force is created to recommend additional research needs for limiting human exposure to electric and magnetic fields from electric transmission and distribution lines.  The task force consists of representatives from the state Energy Office, the Department of Health and the Utilities and Transportation Commission with the Department of Health designated as the lead agency.  The task force is directed to solicit recommendations from utilities and experts within the state's higher education system on ways to limit human exposure to electric and magnetic fields.  The task force is to recommend legislative options and the need, costs and funding options for additional research.  The task force is to report to the Energy and Utilities Committees of the Legislature by January 15, 1992.

Appropriation:  $40,000 from the general fund to the Department of Health

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

     Senate   45    0

     House 75 19 (House amended)

     Senate          (Senate refused to concur)

     House           (House refused to recede)

     Senate   44    0 (Senate concurred)

EFFECTIVE:June 7, 1990