The bill revises the appeals process for environmental and land use matters in Washington State, particularly focusing on the direct review of administrative agency decisions by the court of appeals. It amends RCW 34.05.518 to facilitate direct appeals from superior court to the court of appeals under specific conditions, especially for clean energy projects. The bill introduces provisions for appeals stemming from decisions made by environmental boards, clarifying the superior court's ability to certify cases for transfer to the court of appeals based on the agency record. Additionally, it establishes a new section that mandates the consolidation of appeals for multiple permits related to the same clean energy project, streamlining the process and outlining the jurisdictional responsibilities of relevant boards.

Moreover, the bill updates civil penalty provisions, increasing maximum penalties for various violations and clarifying the appeal process for penalties to the pollution control hearings board. It specifies that each violation or day of noncompliance constitutes a separate violation and sets penalties for manufacturers and authorities failing to comply with approved plans. The bill also outlines procedures for filing land use petitions in superior court, including timely filing requirements and service definitions, while including provisions for the expiration of certain sections by July 1, 2026, and repealing previous exemptions related to solid waste permit requirements. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for environmental compliance and enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 34.05.518, 36.70C.150, 90.58.180, 70A.230.080, 70A.300.120, 70A.430.070, 86.16.081
Substitute Bill: 34.05.518, 90.58.180, 70A.230.080, 70A.300.120, 70A.430.070, 86.16.081
Engrossed Substitute: 34.05.518, 90.58.180, 70A.230.080, 70A.300.120, 70A.430.070, 86.16.081
Bill as Passed Legislature: 34.05.518, 90.58.180, 70A.230.080, 70A.300.120, 70A.430.070, 86.16.081, 70A.500.260, 70A.500.130
Session Law: 34.05.518, 90.58.180, 70A.230.080, 70A.300.120, 70A.430.070, 86.16.081, 70A.500.260, 70A.500.130