S-4434               _______________________________________________

                                                   SENATE BILL NO. 6771

                        _______________________________________________

State of Washington                               51st Legislature                              1990 Regular Session

By Senators Lee, Talmadge, Anderson, McMullen and Patrick

Read first time 1/24/90 and referred to Committee on  Energy & Utilities.

AN ACT Relating to magnetic fields; creating new sections; and making an appropriation.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.     The legislature finds that as studies are continued into the possible health effects from electric and magnetic fields, utilities are placed in a difficult position when considering the placement of additional electric transmission and distribution lines.  The legislature further finds that as certain parts of the state experience high rates of growth, continued demand for power will likely result in an increasing need for electric transmission and distribution facilities, and that additional options are needed for locating these lines so as to minimize human exposure to electric and magnetic fields.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 2.     The commission shall study, by January 1, 1991, the feasibility of developing optional methods of locating electric transmission and distribution lines so as to minimize human exposure of electric and magnetic fields, with an emphasis on minimizing exposure in densely populated areas.  The study shall take into account the costs associated with different location options.  To the extent possible, the commission shall consult with utility representatives and experts within the state's higher education system on engineering techniques and ways to minimize human exposure to electric and magnetic fields.  The study shall include recommendations for legislative action.  The commission shall report the results of the study to the energy and utilities committees of the house of representatives and the senate by January 15, 1991.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 3.     The sum of one hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, is appropriated for the biennium ending June 30, 1991, from the public service revolving fund to the utilities and transportation commission for the purposes of this act.