FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 1325

                                  C 220 L 88

BYRepresentatives Rust, Walker, Unsoeld, Schoon and Winsley; by request of Department of Ecology

Changing provisions relating to the state water pollution control agency's authority.

House Committe on Environmental Affairs

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

In 1983 the Department of Ecology was given authority to administer portions of the federal Clean Water Act.  Congress amended the Clean Water Act in 1987.  The amendments included the enactment of a Nonpoint Pollution Grant Program and the National Estuary Program.  The Department of Ecology does not have specific authority to administer the programs affected by the 1987 amendments.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Ecology is given authority to participate in programs authorized by the federal Clean Water Act as it was amended on February 4, 1987, including the Nonpoint Pollution Grant Program and the National Estuary Program.  In implementing the National Estuary Program, the Department of Ecology is directed to participate jointly with the Puget Sound Water Quality Authority.

By January 1, 1989 the Department of Social and Health Services must propose standards for the repair of existing, failing on-site sewage disposal systems at single-family residences adjacent to marine waters.  Design, operation and maintenance standards may be specified.  Discharges into marine water may occur only if on-site sewage disposal systems are not feasible and state water quality standards are met.  The State Board of Health must adopt the department's standards unless modification or rejection is necessary to protect public health.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 93   0

      Senate    45     1 (Senate amended)

      House 97   1 (House concurred)

EFFECTIVE:June 9, 1988