The bill aims to prevent the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council from overriding local laws that prohibit the establishment of electricity storage facilities in critical areas. It amends RCW 80.50.090 to clarify that while the council can conduct public hearings and make determinations regarding site certifications, it cannot preempt local land use plans or zoning ordinances that specifically forbid the siting of such facilities in designated critical areas, as defined in RCW 36.70A.030. This ensures that local regulations remain intact and respected in the decision-making process for energy facility siting.

Additionally, the bill modifies RCW 80.50.110 to specify that the state preemption of regulations concerning energy facilities is subject to the provisions outlined in RCW 80.50.090. This means that while the state retains authority over energy facility regulations, it must also adhere to local laws that restrict the siting of electricity storage facilities in critical areas. Overall, the legislation reinforces local governance in land use matters while still allowing for state oversight in energy facility certification.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 80.50.090, 80.50.110