The bill amends Washington state law to include "fusion energy facilities" as eligible for site certification under chapter 80.50 RCW, reflecting the state's commitment to clean energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It aims to streamline the application review process for energy facilities, ensuring timely decisions while promoting public participation. The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council is granted expanded authority to oversee the siting of both clean energy product manufacturing facilities and fusion energy facilities, which must obtain necessary radiation control licenses from state or federal agencies. Key amendments include the insertion of "fusion energy facilities" into the certification process and updated definitions related to energy facilities.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes local government and tribal involvement in the siting and compliance monitoring of energy facilities. It mandates the council to engage with local governments and consult with federally recognized tribes affected by proposed projects, ensuring their concerns are addressed. The chair of the council is responsible for providing updates on these consultations, and the final report to the governor must summarize the consultation process. The legislation also includes provisions for unfinished fission nuclear power projects, allowing for the transfer of site restoration responsibilities to political subdivisions if construction is halted, while ensuring public welfare responsibilities are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 80.50.060
Bill as Passed Legislature: 80.50.010, 80.50.060, 80.50.300
Session Law: 80.50.010, 80.50.060, 80.50.300