The bill addresses the significant challenges faced by shellfish farmers in Washington due to burrowing shrimp infestations, which have been exacerbated by the loss of effective pest control methods. In 2014, shellfish growers lost their primary tool for managing these infestations, leading to reduced productivity and damage to the aquatic ecosystem. The bill establishes a new integrated pest management research program within the Washington State Department of Agriculture, aimed at developing innovative control methods for burrowing shrimp. This program will support research efforts, enhance collaboration among stakeholders, and provide permitting assistance for shellfish growers to utilize identified control methods.

Additionally, the bill creates a governing board to oversee the research program, comprising representatives from various state departments, shellfish growers, processors, and relevant organizations. This board will ensure transparency and accountability in the program's implementation and will meet quarterly to discuss and develop proposals aimed at controlling burrowing shrimp. The bill includes provisions for the reimbursement of board members' expenses and sets an expiration date for the sections of the act on July 1, 2035.