The bill amends existing laws related to the sustainable farms and fields grant program in Washington State, specifically RCW 89.08.615, 89.08.620, and 89.08.630. It establishes a framework for the commission to develop and distribute grant funds to conservation districts and public entities for projects that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Key provisions include limiting the use of funds for administrative costs and ensuring that no single grant applicant receives more than 20% of the total funds. The bill also outlines allowable uses for grant funds, such as payments for carbon storage, equipment purchases, and technical assistance, while removing previous provisions related to financial assistance for compost spreading equipment.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the prioritization of grant applications based on their potential environmental benefits, including increasing organic carbon in soils, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing pollinator habitats. It introduces new metrics for evaluating grant applications and mandates the commission to report on the program's performance and funding distribution. Notably, the bill requires an evaluation of carbon equivalency metrics before implementing upfront payments for carbon storage, ensuring that the program aligns with best practices for measuring carbon sequestration.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 89.08.615, 89.08.620, 89.08.630