This bill aims to make the habitat recovery pilot program permanent and enhance the streamlined environmental permitting process for salmon recovery projects in Washington State. The program, originally established in 2021, has successfully expedited project approvals, resulting in time and cost savings for habitat restoration initiatives. The bill amends existing laws, specifically RCW 77.55.480 and RCW 43.21C.515, to replace references to the "habitat recovery pilot program" with "restoration permit pathway program," thereby formalizing the program's status. It also expands the list of qualifying projects to include additional funding sources and grants related to clean water and habitat conservation.

Key provisions of the bill include requirements for project applicants to document compliance with local, state, and federal flood risk reduction standards, as well as cultural resource protection measures. The bill stipulates that projects approved under this streamlined process are exempt from certain local and state permits, except for those necessary for federal program participation. Additionally, it establishes a multiagency permitting team to facilitate project reviews and outlines the process for addressing concerns raised by local governments or federally recognized tribes. The act is set to take effect on June 30, 2025, and includes a declaration of emergency to ensure its immediate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 77.55.480, 43.21C.515