The proposed bill seeks to enhance environmental justice in Washington State by requiring comprehensive assessments of potentially impactful projects in pollution-burdened communities. It introduces the concept of an "Environmental Justice Impact Statement" (EJIS), which must evaluate existing environmental and public health stressors, the potential impacts of the project, and the ability to avoid contributing to disproportionate effects. The bill emphasizes that economic benefits cannot justify projects that would harm these communities. Additionally, it mandates public engagement through hearings and requires lead agencies to consider community feedback in their decision-making processes.

The legislation also stipulates that project proponents must demonstrate a compelling public interest if their projects cannot avoid contributing to adverse environmental and public health stressors. This includes proving that the project addresses essential community needs and that no reasonable alternatives exist outside the affected area. The bill empowers lead agencies to condition project approvals based on these assessments and allows for the denial of projects that do not meet the compelling public interest criteria. Furthermore, it introduces new obligations for lead agencies regarding environmental justice assessments and permits the Department of Ecology to update the definition of pollution-burdened communities as needed.