This bill aims to enhance the Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) by ensuring that climate change, carbon sequestration, environmental health disparities, and treaty-protected resources are adequately considered in environmental assessments. It introduces a new section to chapter 43.21C RCW, mandating that lead agencies incorporate specific elements into their environmental checklists, including climate change impacts, carbon sequestration potential, and the effects on overburdened communities and treaty-protected resources. The bill emphasizes the need for improved guidance to help project proponents understand their obligations regarding these critical environmental and health factors.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific considerations that lead agencies must take into account when evaluating proposed actions. These include assessing the potential for significant increases in greenhouse gas emissions, the impact on carbon sequestration efforts, and the effects on vulnerable populations and treaty rights. The legislation also requires that if previous environmental impact statements did not adequately address these issues, a new analysis must be conducted. Overall, the bill seeks to align SEPA's requirements with contemporary environmental challenges and social justice considerations, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to environmental protection in Washington State.