The bill amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to strengthen the clean fuels program by establishing stricter standards for reducing carbon intensity in transportation fuels. It mandates the Department of Ecology to adopt rules that require a 45 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from each unit of fuel compared to 2017 levels by January 1, 2038. The legislation outlines a schedule for annual percentage decreases in emissions and allows for adjustments based on vehicle emission program enforcement and biofuel production performance. Additionally, it introduces compliance measures and penalties for regulated parties and credit generators, including corrective action orders and fines for non-compliance.

The bill also clarifies definitions and updates penalties related to environmental regulations, introducing the term "Registered party" for those registered under RCW 70A.535.070 and expanding the definition of "Transportation fuel" to include electricity and gaseous fuels. It establishes a maximum fine of $10,000 for gross misdemeanors and civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day for violations. Furthermore, it creates a clean fuels program account in the state treasury for fee collection, mandates a biennial workload analysis, and allows for penalty adjustments based on inflation. A provision is included to ensure the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part of the act is deemed invalid, ultimately aiming to enhance regulatory clarity and enforcement in environmental protection.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.535.025, 70A.15.3150, 70A.15.3160
Substitute Bill: 70A.535.025, 70A.15.3150, 70A.15.3160, 70A.535.130
Second Substitute: 70A.535.025, 70A.15.3150, 70A.15.3160, 70A.535.130
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.535.025, 70A.535.060, 70A.15.3150, 70A.15.3160, 70A.535.130
Session Law: 70A.535.025, 70A.535.060, 70A.15.3150, 70A.15.3160, 70A.535.130