FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1549

                         C 400 L 99

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Requiring the department of ecology to extend the time for work under a permit if water use has been prevented or restricted due to federal or state laws.

Sponsors:  Representatives G. Chandler, Linville, Mastin, Schoesler, Koster and Fortunato.

House Committee on Agriculture & Ecology

Senate Committee on Environmental Quality & Water Resources

Background:

If a person applies for a water right and the Department of Ecology (DOE) issues a water right permit, the permit will contain a deadline by which construction required for the water use is to be completed and beneficial use of the water is to take place.  This deadline may be extended by the DOE with due regard for good faith of the applicant and the public interests affected.  If the water use is perfected under the terms of the permit, the DOE issues the permit holder a water right certificate.

Summary:

If federal or state laws prevent or restrict water use otherwise authorized under a water use permit issued for a federal reclamation project, the DOE must extend the deadlines set in the permit for commencing work, completing work, and applying water to beneficial use. 

Votes on Final Passage:

House960

Senate480(Senate amended)

House960(House concurred)

Effective:July 25, 1999