The bill seeks to improve environmental and public health protections concerning solid waste handling facilities in Washington State by amending the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It establishes clearer guidelines for the permitting process, requiring jurisdictional health departments to refer permit applications to the state department for review to ensure compliance with local and state regulations. Additionally, it mandates that landfill permits must receive state department approval before issuance and sets specific timelines for permit approvals, including a 90-day limit for initial applications and a 45-day limit for renewals. The bill also introduces a cooperative management program between local governments and the state, detailing their respective responsibilities in enforcing solid waste regulations.

Furthermore, the legislation imposes civil penalties for non-compliance, starting at $5,000 per day for initial violations and escalating to $10,000 per day for ongoing violations. It includes provisions for appeals related to enforcement actions and penalties, ensuring effective mechanisms for addressing violations. The bill also outlines decisions and orders from various departments that are subject to review or appeal, while specifying that certain hearings will not be conducted by the hearings board. A critical provision states that if specific funding for the act is not provided by June 30, 2025, the act will become null and void, highlighting the necessity of funding for its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.205.125, 70A.205.130, 70A.205.135, 70A.205.140
Substitute Bill: 70A.205.125, 70A.205.130, 70A.205.135, 70A.205.140
Second Substitute: 70A.205.125, 70A.205.130, 70A.205.135, 70A.205.140
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.205.125, 70A.205.130, 70A.205.135, 70A.205.140
Session Law: 70A.205.125, 70A.205.130, 70A.205.135, 70A.205.140