Bill Tracking Summary for Proposed Washington State Legislation affecting rural land
posted 2/19/07
  Sponsor Position Status
 
1128 Making operating appropriations for 2007-2009.    Sommers Support H, Approp
 
1627 Creating the office of farmland preservation.    Linville Support H, Ag & Nat Res
 
1648 Increasing protections for agricultural operations, activities, and practices.    B. Sullivan Support H, AGNRDP
 
1938 Concerning the relinquishment of a water right.    Hailey Support H, Ag & Nat Res
 
S5108 Creating the office of farmland preservation. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Haugen Support S, Ways & Means
 
5110 Creating the water quality capital account.    Fraser Support S, Rules 2
 
5145 Clarifying existing requirements for conservation of agricultural lands.    Haugen Monitor S, Ag/Rural/Dev
 
S5248 Preserving the viability of agricultural lands. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Hatfield Monitor S, Rules 2G
 
5257 Changing the name of the interagency committee for outdoor recreation to the recreation and conservation funding board.    Jacobsen Monitor S, Rules 2 +
 
5362 Preserving farm and agricultural land through conservation futures levies.    Jacobsen Monitor S, Ag/Rural/Dev
 
5861 Regarding special assessments for conservation districts.    Rasmussen Monitor S, Ag/Rural/Dev

 

 
S1029 Defining E85 motor fuel. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    B. Sullivan Monitor S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
 
1057 Requesting information on the use of alternative fuels.    Hudgins Monitor S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
 
1167 Preserving the viability of agricultural lands.    Blake Monitor H, Local Gov.
 
S1193 Creating a legislative task force on the structure of the department of fish and wildlife. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    B. Sullivan Concerns H, Rules R
 
S1303 Encouraging the use of cleaner energy. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Dickerson Monitor H, Approp +
 
1563 Using environmental mitigation moneys for agricultural preservation.    Ericksen Monitor H, Local Gov.
 
1636 Creating a regional transfer of development rights program.    Simpson Support H, Local Gov.
 
1888 Regarding Brassica seed production.    Linville Monitor H, AGNRDP
 
1895 Establishing an E85 motor fuel tax rate.    Chase Monitor H, Trans
 
1931 Addressing the application of the growth management act to certain agricultural activities occurring on agricultural lands.    Blake Monitor H, Ag & Nat Res
 
1944 Modifying provisions concerning excise tax exemptions for the handling and processing of livestock manure.    Blake Monitor H, Finance
 
1999 Creating a state revolving loan fund to provide financial assistance to local governments for the conservation of working farms and forests.    P. Sullivan Monitor H, Ag & Nat Res
 
5217 Allowing counties to increase funding for properties acquired through conservation futures.    Jacobsen Monitor S, NR/Ocean/Rec
 
5656 Creating a regional transfer of development rights program.    Jacobsen Monitor S, NR/Ocean/Rec
 
5669 Requiring agencies to expedite decisions regarding the implementation of renewable fuel standards.    Holmquist Monitor S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
 
5671 Exempting alternative fuel from taxation if manufactured in Washington state.    Holmquist Monitor S, Transportatn
 
5672 Requiring special purpose districts and municipalities to post certain information on their web sites.    Fairley Monitor S, Govt Op & El
 
5692 Regulating conservation easements.    Rasmussen Monitor S, Ag/Rural/Dev
 
5749 Regarding Brassica seed production.    Schoesler Monitor S, Rules 2G

 

 
1184 Requiring land surveying review requirements.    Williams Monitor H, Commerce/Lab
 
1408 Concerning conversion of forest land to nonforestry uses.    Orcutt Monitor H, Approp
 
S1409 Transferring jurisdiction over conversion-related forest practices to local governments. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    B. Sullivan Monitor H, 2nd Reading
 
1423 Concerning small rainwater collection facilities.    McCoy Monitor H, Ag & Nat Res
 
1424 Authorizing the department of ecology to adopt rules regulating certain rainwater collection facilities.    McCoy Monitor H, Ag & Nat Res
 
1595 Expanding the protection of shellfish in Puget Sound.    Appleton Monitor H, Puget Sound
 
1598 Requiring recipients of money from the salmon recovery funding board to agree to disclose information regarding the funding in compliance with chapter 42.56 RCW.    Kretz Monitor H, 2nd Reading
 
1635 Studying water conservation development strategies in rural areas.    McCoy Monitor H, Ag & Nat Res
 
1813 Changing the name of the interagency committee for outdoor recreation to the recreation and conservation funding board.    Kelley Monitor 2nd ReadSCal
 
S5009 Exempting biodiesel fuel used for nonhighway farm use from sales and use tax. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Haugen Monitor S, Ways & Means
 
5233 Concerning special purpose district commissioner per diem compensation.    Hatfield Monitor S, Govt Op & El
 
5383 Modifying provisions of the energy freedom program.    Hargrove Monitor S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
 
5421 Concerning environmental covenants.    Fraser Monitor S, Ways & Means
 
S5481 Concerning conservation measures in performance-based contracting. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Oemig Monitor S, Rules 2G
 
S5542 Creating the heritage barn preservation program. (DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)    Jacobsen Monitor S, Ways & Means
 
5586 Encouraging the use of cleaner energy.    Murray Monitor S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
Calendar Items
2/15/2007 1938 Water rights Agriculture & Natural Resources   10:00 AM HHR B
2/15/2007 1999 Working farms and forests Agriculture & Natural Resources   10:00 AM HHR B
2/15/2007 5233 Special purpose districts Government Operations & Elections   3:30 PM SHR 2
2/15/2007 5362 Conservation futures levy Agriculture & Rural Economic Development   3:30 PM SHR 3
2/15/2007 5861 Conservation districts Agriculture & Rural Economic Development   3:30 PM SHR 3
2/19/2007 S5108 Farmland preservation office Ways & Means TVW 3:30 PM SHR 4
2/20/2007 1636 Development rights Local Government   1:30 PM HHR E
2/20/2007 S1303 Cleaner energy Appropriations TVW 3:30 PM HHR A
Bill Tracking Details
S1029 Defining E85 motor fuel B. Sullivan
House Committee on Technology, Energy & Communications (originally sponsored by Representatives B. Sullivan, Linville, and Morris)    
 
Declares that "E85 motor fuel" means an alternative fuel that is a blend of denatured ethanol and hydrocarbon that typically contains eighty-five percent ethanol by volume, but at a minimum must contain seventy percent ethanol by volume, and complies with ASTM specification D5798-99.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1029-s.pdf
1057 Use of alternative fuel Hudgins
Representative Hudgins    
 
Requests information on the use of alternative fuels.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1057.pdf
1128 Operating budget 2007-09 Sommers
Representative Sommers   Requested by 
Governor Gregoire
 
Makes operating appropriations for 2007-2009.
Companion Bill: 5140  Operating budget 2007-09 S, Ways & Means
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1128.pdf
1167 Agricultural lands Blake
Representatives Blake, Kretz, Grant, Newhouse, Moeller, Orcutt, Haigh, Bailey, Springer, and Haler    
 
Provides that critical area ordinances and development regulations developed or amended by local governments under chapter 36.70A RCW may not prohibit legally existing agricultural activities occurring on agricultural land, as defined in RCW 90.58.065, and may not require removal of agricultural land from production. This act applies only to this chapter, and shall not affect any other authority of local governments.
Companion Bill: 5248  Agricultural lands S, Rules 2G
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1167.pdf
1184 Land surveyors Williams
Representatives Williams and Alexander    
 
Provides that, if professional land surveying judgment is required in the review, approval, or examination by a state agency of survey data, documents prepared by a person authorized to practice land surveying, or services performed by a person authorized to practice land surveying, the review, approval, or examination must be done by, or under the direct supervision of, another person authorized to practice land surveying or as otherwise authorized by state law.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1184.pdf
S1193 Fish & wildlife director B. Sullivan
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives B. Sullivan and Pearson)    
 
Provides that the task force's review and recommendations shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) The effectiveness and accountability of the current fish and wildlife commission model; 
(2) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission should retain the power to hire and terminate the director; 
(3) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commissioner appointment process is effective and whether or not commissioners should be limited to no more than two consecutive terms in office; 
(4) Whether or not a citizens' ombuds function should be added to the fish and wildlife commission model and if so, what would the role of the ombuds be; 
(5) Whether or not it is necessary to restructure the policy authority of the fish and wildlife commission; 
(6) Possible alternative models for fish and wildlife commission structures; 
(7) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission's role should be limited to that of an advisory body; 
(8) Possible alternatives for appointment and confirmation of fish and wildlife commission members; 
(9) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission's effectiveness and accountability would be improved with the addition of either policy staff or fiscal staff, or both; 
(10) Whether or not the role of regulating recreational fishing and hunting policy and season setting should be separated from commercial activities, regulatory role/functions, land management, and other departmental administrative functions; 
(11) The effectiveness and responsiveness to the public, the office of the governor, and the legislature of the fish and wildlife commission and department of fish and wildlife management structure; and 
(12) Whether or not the existing geographic, consultation, and expertise mandates for fish and wildlife commission appointments meet the needs of the state or whether or not the fish and wildlife commission should be restructured. 
Requires the task force to report its findings and recommendations to the governor, the fish and wildlife commission, the director of fish and wildlife, and the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2007.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1193-s.pdf
S1303 Cleaner energy Dickerson
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Dickerson, B. Sullivan, Jarrett, Linville, Priest, Appleton, Pedersen, Kenney, Sells, Morrell, Lantz, O'Brien, Chase, Eickmeyer, McCoy, Haigh, Rolfes, Hurst, Eddy, Springer, Schual-Berke, Fromhold, Moeller, Hunt, Goodman, Williams, Darneille, Kagi, Lovick, Campbell, Dunshee, Sommers, Simpson, Hunter, Roberts, and Miloscia)    
 
Provides that, to reduce fossil fuel dependence and build our clean energy economy, the state should develop policies and incentives that help businesses, consumers, and farmers gain greater access to affordable clean fuels and vehicles and to produce clean fuels in the state. These policies and incentives should include: (1) Incentives for replacement of the most polluting diesel engines, especially in school buses; 
(2) Transitional incentives for development of the most promising in-state clean fuels and fuel feedstocks, including biodiesel crops and ethanol from plant waste; 
(3) Reduced fossil fuel consumption by state fleets; 
(4) Development of promising new technologies for displacing petroleum with electricity, such as "plug-in hybrids"; and 
(5) Impact analysis and emission accounting procedures that prepare Washington to respond and prosper as global warming impacts occur and as policies and markets to reduce global warming pollution are developed. 
Finds that it is not cost-effective to retrofit much older buses because of their mechanical condition and very high emissions. Replacement with new, ultra-low emission buses, beginning with the model year 2007, is the most effective means to nearly eliminate the toxic emissions generated by the use of these older buses. In addition, newer buses are safer, more reliable, provide significantly higher fuel economy, and have lower overall operating costs. An incentive program to accelerate purchase of newer buses and replacement of older buses will more quickly achieve these gains and result in a lower health risk to children. 
Requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to implement a school bus replacement incentive program. As part of the program, the office shall fund up to ten percent of the cost of a new 2007 or later model year school bus purchased by a school district by no later than June 30, 2009, provided that the new bus is replacing a 1994 or older school bus in the school district's fleet. Replacement of the oldest buses must be given highest priority. 
Directs the office of the superintendent of public instruction to ensure that buses being replaced through this program are surplused under RCW 28A.335.180. 
Appropriates the sum of five million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in section 601 of this act to the office of the superintendent of public instruction for the purposes of this act. 
Finds that the development of a Washington-based feedstock agricultural and forest products market is highly desirable for producing biodiesel and ethanol. Research and incentive programs are needed to develop a market in Washington to produce cellulosic ethanol from wood waste and other organic materials. Cellulosic ethanol is a preferred biofuel because it provides much greater reductions in petroleum dependence and carbon emissions as compared to starch-based ethanol. 
Declares it is important for the state of Washington to develop a complete supply chain infrastructure that allows the state government, including its local government subdivisions, to supply its complete fuel needs with biofuels produced from feedstocks completely produced in Washington. The goal of suppling one hundred percent of state and local government's fuel needs with biofuels should be a reality by 2015. 
Provides that, by no later than January 1, 2020, the annual fossil fuel usage by the state's motor vehicle fleets must be at least twenty-five percent below the annual usage for the year 2006. 
Declares it is in the state's interest and to the benefit of the people of the state to encourage the use of electrical vehicles in order to reduce emissions and provide the public with cleaner air. This section expressly authorizes the purchase of power at state expense to recharge privately and publicly owned plug-in electrical vehicles at state office locations where the vehicles are used for state business, are commute vehicles, or where the vehicles are at the state location for the purpose of conducting business with the state. 
Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in section 601 of this act to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the purposes of staffing the vehicle electrification work group and providing research to carry out the work of the group. 
Finds that it is important for the state of Washington to participate in emerging regional, national, and international markets to mitigate climate change. 
Appropriates the sum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in this act to the climate impacts group at the University of Washington for the purposes of contracting for an analysis of the potential human health impacts of global warming on the state of Washington. 
Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in this act to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the purposes of developing and recommending a framework for the state of Washington to participate in emerging regional, national, and global markets to mitigate climate change, on a multisector basis, including the forest sector. 
Requires the department of general administration, in conjunction with private sector suppliers, to develop a pilot program for providing E85 fueling capacity at appropriate intervals and locations along at least interstate routes 5, 82, and 90 throughout the state for the use of public and private vehicles. 
Appropriates the sum of five hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in this act to the office of financial management to be provided to the clean energy coordinator created in this act and for the purpose of providing greater access to public sector fueling capacity for biofuels. 
Appropriates the sum of six million seven hundred fifty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in this act to Washington State University for the purposes of this act and for qualifying for potential federal matching funds for research on biofuels. 
Appropriates the sum of two million one hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, from the clean energy incentive account created in this act to the climate impacts group at the University of Washington for the purposes of producing a fifty-year comprehensive state climate change assessment
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1303-s.pdf
1408 Forest land Orcutt
Representatives Orcutt, B. Sullivan, Kretz, Blake, Armstrong, Chandler, Pearson, and Takko    
 
Provides that, if a county, city, town, or regional governmental entity receives a notice of conversion to nonforestry use by the department under RCW 76.09.060, then the county, city, town, or regional governmental entity must deny all applications for permits or approvals, including building permits and subdivision approvals, relating to nonforestry uses of the land that is the subject of the notification. The prohibition created by this act must be enforced by the county, city, town, or regional governmental entity: (1) For a period of six years from the approval date of the applicable forest practices application or notification or the date that the department was made aware of the harvest activities; or 
(2) Until the following activities are completed for the land that is the subject of the notice of conversion to a nonforestry use: (a) full compliance with chapter 43.21C RCW, if applicable; (b) the department has notified the county, city, town, or regional governmental entity that the landowner has resolved any outstanding final orders or decisions issued by the department; and (c) a determination is made by the county, city, town, or regional governmental entity as to whether or not the condition of the land in question is in full compliance with local ordinances and regulations.
Companion Bill: 5883  Forest land S, NR/Ocean/Rec
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1408.pdf
S1409 Forest practices B. Sullivan
House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives B. Sullivan, Orcutt, Kretz, and Takko)    
 
Requires each county, city, and town assuming regulation of forest practices as provided in RCW 76.09.240 (1) and (2) to adopt development regulations that: (1) Protect public resources, as defined in RCW 76.09.020, from material damage or the potential for material damage; 
(2) Require appropriate approvals for all phases of the conversion of forest lands, including clearing and grading; and 
(3) Are guided by the planning goals in RCW 36.70A.020 and by the purposes and policies of the forest practices act as set forth in RCW 76.09.010. 
Provides that, if necessary, each county, city, or town that assumes regulation of forest practices under RCW 76.09.240 shall amend its comprehensive plan to ensure consistency between its comprehensive plan and development regulations. 
Provides that, before a county, city, or town may regulate forest practices under RCW 76.09.240 (1) and (2), it shall update its development regulations as required by RCW 36.70A.130 and, if applicable, RCW 36.70A.215. Forest practices regulations adopted under RCW 76.09.240 (1) and (2) may be adopted as part of the legislative action taken under RCW 36.70A.130 or 36.70A.215. 
Requires that a county, city, or town that regulates forest practices report permit information to the department of revenue for all approved forest practices permits.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1409-s.pdf
1423 Small rainwater collection McCoy
Representatives McCoy, Hunt, VanDeWege, and Upthegrove    
 
Declares that RCW 90.03.250 does not apply to rain barrels, cisterns, and other similar facilities for capturing runoff from roofs, paved areas, and other hard surfaces on a single residential property when the: (1) Total amount of water storage does not exceed three hundred gallons; and 
(2) Water is intended to be put to beneficial use on the property where the rainwater is collected. 
Declares that rainwater collected under this act does not result in a water right under this act or RCW 90.03.370. 
Provides that rain barrels, cisterns, and other similar facilities for capturing runoff from roofs, paved areas, and other hard surfaces on a single residential property are exempt from the reservoir and secondary permit requirements of chapter 90.03 RCW when the: (1) Total amount of water storage does not exceed three hundred gallons; and 
(2) Water is intended to be put to beneficial use on the property where the rainwater is collected. 
Declares that rainwater collected under this act does not result in a water right under this act or RCW 90.03.250.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1423.pdf
1424 Rainwater collection McCoy
Representatives McCoy, VanDeWege, and Chase    
 
Authorizes the department of ecology to adopt rules regulating certain rainwater collection facilities. 
Requires the department to report to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 31, 2008, regarding the implementation of this act. After June 1, 2009, the department shall proceed with permanent rule making to establish exemptions by rule for rainwater systems consistent with this act unless the legislature acts to direct otherwise.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1424.pdf
1563 Agricultural preservation Ericksen
Representatives Ericksen, Bailey, Strow, McDonald, Chandler, Ross, and Linville    
 
Provides that, for the purpose of environmental mitigation of transportation projects, any county may require the department of transportation to participate in the county's purchase of development rights program. If the county requires the department's participation, the department shall transfer to the county's purchase of development rights program environmental mitigation moneys for transportation projects. 
Declares that rights in perpetuity to future development of any open space land, farm and agricultural land, and timber land which are so designated by the county may be used as environmental mitigation moneys for transportation projects in lieu of wetlands or other mitigation required for a specific transportation project.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1563.pdf
1595 Shellfish protection Appleton
Representatives Appleton, Jarrett, Hunt, and Lantz    
 
Expands the protection of shellfish in Puget Sound.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1595.pdf
1598 Salmon recovery Kretz
Representatives Kretz, Ericks, Blake, Pettigrew, Armstrong, Warnick, Sump, Upthegrove, Newhouse, Kristiansen, and Condotta    
 
Requires that any project sponsor or other entity directly or indirectly receiving funding from the salmon recovery funding board that is not subject to disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW must, as a mandatory contractual prerequisite to receiving the funding, agree to disclose any information in regards to that funding as if the project sponsor or other entity was subject to the requirements of chapter 42.56 RCW.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1598.pdf
1627 Farmland preservation office Linville
Representatives Linville, Quall, Pearson, Strow, Morrell, Bailey, Conway, Haigh, Rolfes, Springer, and Simpson    
 
Finds that there is a finite quantity of high quality agricultural land and that often this agricultural land is mistakenly viewed as an expendable resource. 
Finds that the retention of agricultural land is desirable, not only to produce food and other products, but also to maintain our state economy and preferable environmental conditions. For these reasons, and because it is essential that agricultural production be sufficient to meet the needs of our growing population, commitment to the retention of agricultural land should be reflected at the state policy level by the creation of an office of farmland preservation to support the retention of farmland and the viability of farming for future generations.
Companion Bill: 5108  Farmland preservation office S, Ways & Means
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1627.pdf
1635 Water conservation McCoy
Representatives McCoy, B. Sullivan, Simpson, Dunshee, Upthegrove, and Linville    
 
Directs the department of ecology to study and review innovative strategies and processes for supporting conservation development strategies in the rural area, particularly related to provision of water. The objectives of this study are to provide certainty and improve water flows in impaired or at-risk basins through a variety of strategies, while advancing innovative conservation development. 
Appropriates the sum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008, from the general fund to the department of ecology for the purposes of this act. 
Appropriates the sum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009, from the general fund to the department of ecology for the purposes of this act.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1635.pdf
1636 Development rights Simpson
Representatives Simpson, B. Sullivan, Dunshee, Upthegrove, McCoy, Dickerson, P. Sullivan, Morrell, Sells, and Rolfes    
 
Finds that transferring development rights is a market-based technique that encourages the voluntary transfer of growth from places where a community would like to see less development, referred to as sending areas, to places where a community would like to see more development, referred to as receiving areas. Under this technique, permanent deed restrictions are placed on the sending area properties to ensure that the land will be used only for approved activities such as farming, forest management, conservation, or passive recreation. Also under this technique, the costs of purchasing the recorded development restrictions are borne by the developers who receive the building credit or bonus. 
Determines that it is good public policy to build upon existing transfer of development rights programs, pilot projects, and private initiatives that foster effective use of transferred development rights through the creation of a market-based program that focuses on the central Puget Sound region. 
Requires the department to submit recommendations, findings, and legislative recommendations according to the following schedule: (1) By December 1, 2007, the department shall submit a report to the governor and appropriate committees of the legislature on the progress of the regional transfer of development rights program. The report must also include identification of other candidate transfer of development areas and proposals to modify grant criteria for local governments; 
(2) By December 1, 2008, the department shall submit a final report to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature on the progress of the regional transfer of development rights program; and 
(3) By December 1, 2008, the department shall submit findings and legislative recommendations to the appropriate committees of the legislature to implement the recommendations and strategies identified in the final report.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1636.pdf
1648 Agriculture B. Sullivan
Representatives B. Sullivan, Kretz, Grant, Linville, and Strow    
 
Declares an intent to enhance the protection of agricultural operations and activities from nuisance lawsuits, and to further the clear legislative directive of the state growth management act to maintain and enhance the agricultural industry and conserve productive agricultural lands.
Companion Bill: 5076  Agriculture S, Ag/Rural/Dev
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1648.pdf
1813 Committee for outdoor rec Kelley
Representatives Kelley, Priest, Hunt, Dunshee, Hinkle, Condotta, Fromhold, and Linville   Requested by 
Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation
 
Changes the name of the interagency committee for outdoor recreation to the recreation and conservation funding board. 
Makes technical, nonsubstantive changes in order to facilitate the name change.
Companion Bill: 5257  Committee for outdoor rec S, Rules 2 +
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1813.pdf
1888 Brassica seed production Linville
Representatives Linville, Newhouse, Grant, Hailey, and B. Sullivan    
 
Finds that production of biofuel using Brassica seed crops, generally known as canola or rapeseed, can help citizens and businesses conserve energy and reduce the use of petroleum-based fuels, improve air and water quality, and create new industries and jobs for Washington citizens. The legislature also finds that Washington state offers conditions uniquely suited to the production of high quality, high value Brassica vegetable seed, and that the vegetable seed industry is a significant contributor to the diversity and economic viability of the agricultural community. 
Declares that the purpose of this act is to provide for the orderly production of potentially incompatible varieties of Brassica seed crops.
Companion Bill: 5749  Brassica seed production S, Rules 2G
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1888.pdf
1895 E85 fuel tax rate Chase
Representatives Chase, Morris, and Eickmeyer    
 
Provides that the tax rate on E85 motor fuel shall be seventy-one percent of the state's motor vehicle fuel tax rate that is in effect at the time of sale. As used in this act, "E85 motor fuel" means an alternative fuel that is a blend of denatured ethanol and hydrocarbon that typically contains eighty-five percent by volume, and complies with ASTM specification D5798-99.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1895.pdf
1931 Agricultural activities Blake
Representatives Blake, Kretz, Grant, Newhouse, Hankins, Buri, DeBolt, Morris, Williams, Linville, Hinkle, and Dunn    
 
Provides that, beginning July 1, 2007, the center shall design and carry out a process to identify issues that cause conflicts between agricultural activities occurring on agricultural lands and development regulations to protect critical areas. 
Requires the center to involve stakeholders from diverse perspectives in the process, including but not limited to representatives of counties, cities, the agriculture industry, the environmental community, Native American tribes, and state agencies. 
Requires that, by October 1, 2008, the center shall report to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature its findings and recommendations for resolving or reducing these conflicts, including statutory changes for consideration during the 2009 legislative session.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1931.pdf
1938 Water rights Hailey
Representatives Hailey, Haler, Newhouse, Kretz, Warnick, Buri, Ahern, Grant, Kristiansen, Ericksen, Blake, Chandler, Walsh, and Hinkle    
 
Declares that, for purposes of this act, a person shall not be deemed to have voluntarily failed to beneficially use said water right if the person has continued to use at least a portion of said right for the established purpose of use.
Companion Bill: 5849  Water rights S, Wtr/Ener/Tel
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1938.pdf
1944 Livestock manure Blake
Representatives Blake, Warnick, B. Sullivan, Kretz, Hailey, Pettigrew, Linville, Chandler, Kristiansen, Armstrong, Grant, Hinkle, and Dunn    
 
Revises provisions concerning excise tax exemptions for the handling and processing of livestock manure.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1944.pdf
1999 Working farms and forests P. Sullivan
Representatives P. Sullivan, Priest, Appleton, Morrell, Simpson, and Linville    
 
Creates a state revolving loan fund to provide financial assistance to local governments for the conservation of working farms and forests.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1999.pdf
S5009 Biodiesel fuel for farm use Haugen
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen, Hatfield, Poulsen, Sheldon, Holmquist, Rasmussen, Schoesler, Kline, and Shin)    
 
Exempts biodiesel fuel used for nonhighway farm use from sales and use tax.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5009-s.pdf
S5108 Farmland preservation office Haugen
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen, Rasmussen, Jacobsen, Shin, Spanel, Swecker, Brandland, Hatfield, and Parlette)    
 
Finds that there is a finite quantity of high quality agricultural land and that often this agricultural land is mistakenly viewed as an expendable resource. 
Finds that the retention of agricultural land is desirable, not only to produce food and other products, but also to maintain our state economy and preferable environmental conditions. For these reasons, and because it is essential that agricultural production be sufficient to meet the needs of our growing population, commitment to the retention of agricultural land should be reflected at the state policy level by the creation of an office of farmland preservation to support the retention of farmland and the viability of farming for future generations.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5108-s.pdf
5110 Water quality capital acct Fraser
Senators Fraser and Brandland   Requested by 
Office of Financial Management
 
Establishes the water quality capital account.
Companion Bill: 1137  Water quality capital acct H, Cap Budget
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5110.pdf
5145 Conservation of agr lands Haugen
Senators Haugen and Rasmussen    
 
Finds that the decision of the Washington state supreme court in King County v. Central Puget Sound Growth Management Hearings Board, 142 Wn.2d 543 (2000) reflects the original and continuing intent of the legislature regarding designation and conservation of agricultural lands under the growth management act, when it says that the act creates an agricultural conservation imperative that imposes an affirmative duty on local governments to designate and conserve agricultural lands in order to assure the maintenance and enhancement of the agricultural resource industry, and, again, when it says that agricultural lands are protected not for the sake of their ecological role but to ensure the viability of the resource-based industries that depend upon them. 
Declares that allowing conversion of resource lands to other uses or allowing incompatible uses impairs the viability of the agricultural industry. 
Declares an intent to clarify the existing requirements of the growth management act that pertain to conservation of agricultural lands, in order to help assure that comprehensive plans and corresponding development regulations adopted by local governments conserve agricultural lands according to the original and continuing intent of the growth management act as reflected in King County v. Central Puget Sound Growth Management Hearings Board, 142 Wn.2d 543 (2000).
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5145.pdf
5217 Conservation futures program Jacobsen
Senators Jacobsen and Pridemore    
 
Authorizes counties to increase funding for properties acquired through conservation futures.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5217.pdf
5233 Special purpose districts Hatfield
Senators Hatfield, McCaslin, Pridemore, Fairley, and Haugen    
 
Revises provisions for special purpose district commissioner per diem compensation.
Companion Bill: 1368  Special purpose districts H, 2nd Reading
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5233.pdf
S5248 Agricultural lands Hatfield
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Hatfield, Schoesler, Rasmussen, Morton, Honeyford, Haugen, Shin, and Holmquist)    
 
Provides that critical area ordinances and development regulations developed or amended after the effective date of this act by local governments under chapter 36.70A.060 RCW may not prohibit legally existing agricultural activities occurring on agricultural land, as defined in RCW 90.58.065, and may not require removal of agricultural land from production. This act applies only to chapter 36.70A.060 RCW, and shall not affect any other authority of local governments.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5248-s.pdf
5257 Committee for outdoor rec Jacobsen
Senators Jacobsen, Swecker, Parlette, Rockefeller, and Fraser   Requested by 
Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation
 
Changes the name of the interagency committee for outdoor recreation to the recreation and conservation funding board. 
Makes technical, nonsubstantive changes in order to facilitate the name change.
Companion Bill: 1813  Committee for outdoor rec 2nd ReadSCal
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5257.pdf
5362 Conservation futures levy Jacobsen
Senators Jacobsen, Pridemore, Rasmussen, and Kline    
 
Preserves farm and agricultural land through conservation futures levies.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5362.pdf
5383 Energy freedom program Hargrove
Senators Hargrove, Poulsen, Hatfield, Rockefeller, Rasmussen, and Kohl-Welles    
 
Declares that community action agencies in the state are an extremely valuable resource because they focus all available, state, local, private, and federal resources upon the goal of enabling low-income families and low-income individuals of all ages in rural and urban areas to attain the skills, knowledge, and motivations and secure the opportunities needed for them to become free and self-sufficient. 
Provides that, when reviewing an application for a wind project, the director, in cooperation with the department of community, trade, and economic development, may approve an award for assistance only if the director finds that: (1) The project is owned by a community action agency in the state; and 
(2) Any profits generated from the sale of the wind power are wholly used for the agency's nonprofit purposes.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5383.pdf
5421 Environmental covenants Fraser
Senators Fraser, Morton, Poulsen, Swecker, Marr, Regala, Rockefeller, Pridemore, Oemig, Honeyford, Rasmussen, Shin, Kohl-Welles, and Kline    
 
Finds that the national conference of commissioners on uniform state laws has developed uniform legislation called the uniform environmental covenants act. The act ensures that environmental covenants, recorded use restrictions negotiated in connection with hazardous waste site cleanups, and other environmental response projects are legally valid and enforceable. The uniform environmental covenants act achieves this objective by providing clear statutory standards that override court-made doctrines that do not fit such cleanup and reuse contexts. 
Finds that nothing in this act will amend or modify any local or state laws that determine when environmental covenants are required, when a particular contaminated site must be cleaned up, or the standards for a cleanup. 
Declares that adoption of the uniform environmental covenants act in Washington will provide all participants in a cleanup with greater confidence that environmental covenants and other institutional controls will be effective over the life of the cleanup. This will facilitate cleanups of many sites and assist in the recycling of urban brownfield properties into new economic uses for the benefit of the citizens of Washington. 
Adopts most provisions of the uniform legislation while making modifications to integrate the uniform environmental covenants act with Washington's environmental cleanup programs.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5421.pdf
S5481 Conservation measures Oemig
Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Telecommunications (originally sponsored by Senators Oemig, Delvin, Rockefeller, Fraser, and Regala)    
 
Includes water conservation and solid waste reduction in energy conservation provisions.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5481-s.pdf
S5542 Heritage barn preservation Jacobsen
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Jacobsen, McAuliffe, Poulsen, Honeyford, Rasmussen, and Holmquist)    
 
Acknowledges that factors such as changes in the agricultural economy and farming technologies, prohibitive rehabilitation costs, development pressures, and regulations restricting new uses, collectively work to endanger historic barns statewide from falling into decay or being demolished altogether. 
Declares that, as historic barns represent irreplaceable resources, and recognizing that barn preservation will work to retain these structures as functional and economically viable elements of working lands, the purpose of this act is to create a system acknowledging heritage barns statewide that provides emergency assistance to heritage barn owners through matching grants, assesses the need for long-term barn preservation, and considers additional incentives and regulatory revisions that work toward the preservation of heritage barns as integral components of Washington's historic landscapes.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5542-s.pdf
5586 Cleaner energy Murray
Senators Murray, Poulsen, Rockefeller, Kline, Kilmer, Regala, Marr, Weinstein, Oemig, Hargrove, Keiser, Fairley, Tom, Kohl-Welles, and McAuliffe    
 
Provides that, to reduce fossil fuel dependence and build our clean energy economy, the state should develop policies and incentives that help businesses, consumers, and farmers gain greater access to affordable clean fuels and vehicles and to produce clean fuels in the state. These policies and incentives should include: (1) Incentives for replacement of the most polluting diesel engines, especially in school buses; 
(2) Transitional incentives for development of the most promising in-state clean fuels and fuel feedstocks, including biodiesel crops and ethanol from plant waste; 
(3) Reduced fossil fuel consumption by state fleets; 
(4) Development of promising new technologies for displacing petroleum with electricity, such as "plug-in hybrids"; and 
(5) Impact analysis and emission accounting procedures that prepare Washington to respond and prosper as global warming impacts occur and as policies and markets to reduce global warming pollution are developed.
Companion Bill: 1303  Cleaner energy H, Approp +
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5586.pdf
5656 Development rights Jacobsen
Senators Jacobsen, Kline, Rockefeller, Regala, and Tom    
 
Finds that current concern over the rapid and increasing loss of rural, agricultural, and forested land has led to the exploration of creative approaches to preserving these important lands. 
Finds also that the creation of a regional transfer of development rights marketplace will assist in slowing the conversion of these lands. 
Determines that it is good public policy to build upon existing transfer of development rights programs, pilot projects, and private initiatives that foster effective use of transferred development rights through the creation of a market-based program that focuses on the central Puget Sound region. 
Requires the department to submit recommendations, findings, and legislative recommendations according to the following schedule: (1) By December 1, 2007, the department shall submit a report to the governor and appropriate committees of the legislature on the progress of the regional transfer of development rights program. The report must also include identification of other candidate transfer of development areas and proposals to modify grant criteria for local governments; 
(2) By December 1, 2008, the department shall submit a final report to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature on the progress of the regional transfer of development rights program; and 
(3) By December 1, 2008, the department shall submit findings and legislative recommendations, including draft legislation if needed to implement the recommendations and strategies identified in the final report, to the appropriate committees of the legislature.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5656.pdf
5669 Renewable fuel standards Holmquist
Senators Holmquist, Poulsen, Rasmussen, Pflug, Oemig, Swecker, Clements, Schoesler, Roach, Rockefeller, and Kilmer    
 
Requires lead agencies, and other agencies with jurisdiction, to process all applications and decisions relating to infrastructure improvements or activities necessary to implement renewable fuel standards under chapter 19.112 RCW and RCW 43.19.642 in an expedited and coordinated manner and prior to competing applications and decisions.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5669.pdf
5671 Alternative fuel Holmquist
Senators Holmquist, Poulsen, Honeyford, Carrell, Benton, Stevens, Rasmussen, Roach, Oemig, Schoesler, Swecker, Parlette, and Hewitt    
 
Exempts alternative fuel from taxation if manufactured in Washington state.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5671.pdf
5672 Public agencies' web sites Fairley
Senator Fairley    
 
Requires the agenda of all regular and special meetings of the governing body of every special purpose district and any municipality that owns or maintains a web site to be posted within a reasonable time before a meeting. The text of any ordinance, rule, or regulation that is under consideration at the meeting shall be included on the web site at the same time the agenda is posted. The minutes of all regular and special meetings of the governing body of every special purpose district and any municipality that owns or maintains a web site shall be posted within a reasonable time after a meeting.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5672.pdf
5692 Conservation easements Rasmussen
Senators Rasmussen and Morton    
 
Finds that it is in the best interest of the state to find innovative and economically sustainable ways to conserve and protect productive agricultural lands, critical wildlife habitat, and other natural resources. 
Finds that the diminishing stock of productive agricultural lands can be preserved through the creation of conservation easements that limit the amount of land available for intensive development. 
Finds that working natural resources and wildlife habitat areas can be protected by the same conservation easements that protect existing agricultural lands. 
Recognizes the unique interests and knowledge that private property owners have about their land and about the most effective means available to protect the wildlife habitat and natural resources on that land. 
Declares an intent to protect the use and value of productive agricultural property and the wildlife habitat and other natural resources on that property by encouraging voluntary, cooperative farmland preservation and environmental enhancement programs with willing property owners.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5692.pdf
5749 Brassica seed production Schoesler
Senators Schoesler, Rasmussen, Spanel, Morton, Shin, and Haugen    
 
Finds that production of biofuel using Brassica seed crops, generally known as canola or rapeseed, can help citizens and businesses conserve energy and reduce the use of petroleum-based fuels, improve air and water quality, and create new industries and jobs for Washington citizens. The legislature also finds that Washington state offers conditions uniquely suited to the production of high quality, high value Brassica vegetable seed, and that the vegetable seed industry is a significant contributor to the diversity and economic viability of the agricultural community. 
Declares that the purpose of this act is to provide for the orderly production of potentially incompatible varieties of Brassica seed crops.
Companion Bill: 1888  Brassica seed production H, AGNRDP
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5749.pdf
5861 Conservation districts Rasmussen
Senators Rasmussen, Jacobsen, and Kastama    
 
Declares that for counties with a population of between seven hundred fifty thousand and one million five hundred thousand persons, the maximum annual per parcel rate shall not exceed ten dollars, with all funds generated above five dollars per parcel being dedicated to assisting commercial agricultural operations within the district's boundaries.
Full Text URL: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2007-08/Pdf/Bills/Senate Bills/5861.pdf

 

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In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, any copyrighted work in this message is distributed under fair use without profit or payment for non-profit research and educational purposes only. [Ref. http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.shtml]
Back to Current Edition Citizen Review Archive LINKS Search This Site