The bill aims to enhance climate resiliency in Washington State by establishing a water quality trading program for recipients of national pollutant discharge elimination system (NPDES) general permits. It amends RCW 90.48.260 to include provisions that require the Department of Ecology to offer a watershed-based water quality trading program to permittees who are not in compliance with their permits when discharging to waterbodies with a total maximum daily load for temperature. This program is designed to help these permittees achieve compliance through community-based or market-based solutions, with an emphasis on providing incentives for improvements that address urban heat island effects.

Additionally, the bill maintains the existing authority of the Department of Ecology to manage water pollution control programs and permits while allowing for collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. The amendments ensure that the state can effectively implement federal clean water act requirements and manage water quality through comprehensive planning and regulatory measures. The new provisions aim to facilitate compliance and promote innovative approaches to water quality management in the face of climate challenges.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 90.48.260