SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6027

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.

Background: The Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program was authorized under the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides money to capitalize state loan funds. This funding is most commonly used to support wastewater treatment systems, nonpoint source controls, and estuary protection activities. The Department of Ecology (DOE) is the administrator of this program in Washington.

The Washington State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund Loan Program is supported by money from EPA, state match, and interest and loan repayments. DOE manages the annual application and funding process of these funding sources through an integrated funding approach. As such, there is one combined funding cycle, one application form and submittal period, and a combined funding list.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): DOE may provide loans to publicly-owned industrial wastewater treatment facilities that relieve a city of the burden of processing industrial wastewater under the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program and the Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund Loan Program.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Sunnyside finished a complete remodel of its wastewater treatment facility in the mid 1980s and were facing an additional expansion when the Port of Sunnyside agreed to process all of the food processing waste and relieve the city of that burden on their wastewater treatment plant. DOE has given the Port of Sunnyside a loan at one point but at other times has refused. This bill is narrowly drafted so that it only applies to those municipalities that have been relieved of that responsibility. Additionally, the proposed substitute has been more narrowly tailored to the loan program. Sunnyside is unique in having the two wastewater treatment plants that handle domestic wastewater and industrial wastewater. The food processing industries support about 1500 to 1700 fulltime family-wage jobs. Having two wastewater treatment facilities has been very beneficial to both the city and port. It is at times very difficult for the Port of Sunnyside to find reasonable financing so that they can continue to be in compliance with regulations. This bill will allow the Port of Sunnyside to apply for loans that are allowable under the CWA. The Port of Sunnyside would like to compete for the loans.