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 reducing fossil fuel reliance and promoting clean energy. It introduces new definitions and provisions for fusion energy, requiring facilities to obtain necessary radiation control licenses from state or federal agencies. The bill also modifies existing definitions and criteria for energy facilities, including the insertion of "fission" to clarify the types of nuclear energy facilities referenced, and updates thresholds for energy facility classifications to streamline the application process while enhancing public participation and environmental protection.

Additionally, the legislation focuses on fission nuclear power projects, mandating collaboration between the council, local governments, and federally recognized tribes to ensure meaningful participation in the siting review process. The council chair is required to conduct consultations with tribes to address concerns regarding tribal resources. The bill also allows for the transfer of site restoration responsibilities for unfinished fission nuclear projects to local political subdivisions, ensuring that public welfare responsibilities and water rights for site restoration are appropriately managed.

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