The bill aims to extend the water supply milestone for the Yakima River Basin Integrated Plan to 2035, amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Key changes include the adjustment of the "water supply facility permit and funding milestone" date from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2035, and the specification that the milestone must secure permits and funding for the construction of water supply facilities capable of providing at least 214,000 acre-feet of water. Additionally, the bill modifies the review process for projects exceeding $100 million, allowing the Washington Water Research Center to evaluate cost-benefit analyses and report on the economic benefits of each project.

Furthermore, the bill allows the Department of Natural Resources to purchase land for the community forest trust without adhering to certain prerequisites typically required for such acquisitions. The transitional management plan for the acquired land is also extended to align with the new milestone date of June 30, 2035. The act declares an emergency, emphasizing its necessity for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and is set to take effect on June 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 90.38.010, 90.38.110, 90.38.130