This bill aims to make the habitat recovery pilot program permanent, enhancing 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 43.21C.515, to replace references to the "pilot program" with "restoration permit pathway" and to expand the list of qualifying projects to include additional funding sources and programs. It also outlines specific requirements for project applications, including documentation of compliance with flood risk reduction and cultural resource protection standards.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that projects approved under this streamlined process will not be subject to certain local or state permits, except for those minimally necessary for federal program participation. It establishes a multiagency permitting team to facilitate project reviews and ensures that local governments and affected tribes are involved in the permitting process. The bill also includes provisions to protect the state and its employees from civil liability related to these projects, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. The act is set to take effect on June 30, 2025, and is deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety.

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