5923-S2 AMS SWEC JOHN 028

2SSB 5923 - S AMD to S AMD S-2784.1 287

   By    Senator Swecker

PULLED 3/14/2007

   On page 11, on line 23, after "(4)" strike all material through "section" on page 12, line 2, and insert the following:

"(4) The master, operator, or person in charge of a vessel is not

required to conduct an open sea exchange or treatment of ballast water if the master decides that the practice would threaten the safety of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers, because of adverse weather, vessel design limitations, equipment failure, or any other

extraordinary conditions. A master, operator, or person in charge of

a vessel who relies on this exemption must file documentation defined

by the department, subject to: (a) Payment of a fee not to exceed five thousand dollars; (b) discharging only the minimal amount of ballast water operationally necessary; (c) ensuring that ballast water records accurately reflect any reasons for not complying with the mandatory requirements; and (d) any other requirements identified by the department by rule as provided in subsections (3) and (6) of this section."

On page 12, on line 12, after "plans" strike all material through "section" on line 16

On page 17, after line 23, strike all of sections 17 and 18

    Renumber the sections consecutively and correct any internal references accordingly.

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EFFECT: Removes the requirement that vessels treat ballast water chemically prior to discharge under the safety exemption. Removes the exemption from water quality permitting for the chemical treatment of ballast water under the safety exemption.