The bill aims to enhance the protection of tribal cultural resources in Washington State by requiring local governments to adopt ordinances that safeguard archaeological and cultural resources in consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes. By July 1, 2029, counties, cities, and towns must implement these ordinances, which must align with minimum standards developed by the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation. The bill amends RCW 43.21C.240 to ensure that local governments consider the potential impacts on cultural resources during project reviews and mandates that they have a written consultation agreement with affected tribes.

Additionally, the bill establishes a task force to assess current protections for archaeological and cultural resources and to recommend improvements to state policies. This task force will consist of representatives from various stakeholders, including tribal representatives, local governments, and state agencies. The task force is tasked with reviewing existing protections and identifying gaps, with a deadline to submit its findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2028. The provisions of this section will expire on December 1, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Substitute bill: 43.21C.240
Second substitute: 43.21C.240