The bill aims to strengthen environmental leadership in Washington by establishing the "outdoor recreation and climate adaptation account," which will receive funds from the climate investment account. It outlines specific purposes for these funds, including investments in forest health, drought resilience, flood risk mitigation, and improving water quality in Puget Sound. The legislation mandates that at least 35% of total investments from this new account provide direct benefits to vulnerable populations, with a target of 40%. It also emphasizes community engagement in fund allocation and requires annual reporting on progress toward environmental justice goals.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to allow for the use of climate investment funds for projects that support climate resilience and adaptation, including tribal clean energy projects for the 2023-2025 fiscal biennium. It introduces a framework for preapplication processes that require consultation with affected tribes regarding funding decisions that may impact their resources. The bill mandates that agencies halt funding actions if a tribe requests consultation and includes provisions for formal reviews and mediation to resolve disputes, ensuring that tribal interests are adequately represented. It also repeals the climate commitment and natural climate solutions accounts to streamline the funding structure.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.65.040, 70A.65.305