BILL REQ. #:  S-1791.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/26/03.   

     AN ACT Relating to the availability of construction aggregates used in transportation and construction projects; and creating a new section.

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

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   (1) The legislature finds that not all mineral resources of long-term commercial significance can be used as construction aggregates and not all regions of the state have sufficient supplies of construction aggregates. As a result, projects may not be completed timely, economically, and with the quality of aggregates necessary for long-term durability.
     (2)(a) A committee is created to study the state's need for aggregate as recognized under subsection (1) of this section. The committee is comprised of the following:
     (i) The state geologist, representing the department of natural resources, who shall serve as chair;
     (ii) A representative of the association of general contractors;
     (iii) A representative of the governor;
     (iv) A representative of the Washington chapter of the American public works association;
     (v) An operating engineer representing the building and trades council; and
     (vi) A representative of the aggregate and concrete association.
     (b) The committee shall:
     (i) Determine whether the goals and requirements under chapter 36.70A RCW are being met with regard to the identification, designation, and supply of aggregate necessary to meet the twenty-year comprehensive plans and whether sufficient quality and quantity of aggregate is available to meet the transportation elements of the department of transportation, county, city, or municipal projects, and private projects;
     (ii) Determine whether environmental review procedures allow the efficient processing of permit applications without reducing environmental protection and without undermining the expectation that a successful project will receive a permit in a timely manner;
     (iii) Ensure the state has competitive and efficient industries by evaluating and identifying areas of redundant, duplicative, and costly regulations and suggesting remedies to eliminate those inefficient impediments;
     (iv) Consider how the aggregate and affiliated industries should be regulated; and
     (v) No later than December 15, 2003, prepare and submit to the legislature its findings and any legislation necessary.
     (3) The department of transportation and the department of community, trade, and economic development shall provide technical and staff support from existing staff.