FINAL BILL REPORT
SHB 2212
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 161 L 12
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Extending the expiration date of RCW 90.90.030.
Sponsors: House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Blake and Chandler; by request of Department of Ecology).
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development
Background:
The Department of Ecology (Department) has the authority, which expires on June 30, 2012, to enter into voluntary regional agreements (VRA) between the Department and water users that provide for the appropriation of new water for out-of-stream use developed in the Columbia River basin. Any VRA must protect instream flows. Specifically, any new water appropriated under a VRA may not have a negative impact on seasonal instream flows in the main stem of the Columbia and Snake rivers.
The Department must follow specific notification and consultation procedures prior to entering into a VRA. This process includes a consultation with county legislative authorities, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, affected tribal governments, and the federal government.
Any VRAs entered into by the Department prior to June 30, 2012, remain in effect after June 30, 2012. However, after that date, the Department does not have the authority to enter into additional VRAs.
Summary:
The Department of Ecology's authority to enter into voluntary regional agreements for the purposes of providing new water for out-of-stream use in the Columbia River basin is extended from June 30, 2012, to June 30, 2018.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 95 | 0 | |
Senate | 47 | 0 |
Effective: | June 7, 2012 |