The bill aims to ensure fair treatment of municipal solid waste management systems in Washington by amending existing laws and creating a new section. It establishes that the state's only waste-to-energy system will emit fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional landfill disposal methods. To achieve equitable treatment under the Washington cap and invest program, the bill introduces a specific exemption for this waste-to-energy system. Additionally, it amends RCW 70A.65.080 to clarify the criteria for covered entities, including those that report emissions and the thresholds that apply to various types of emissions sources.

Key amendments include the removal of previous provisions that defined covered entities based on waste-to-energy facility emissions and the introduction of new exemptions for emissions from waste-to-energy facilities that comply with existing regulations. The bill also emphasizes the importance of not requiring multiple covered entities to bear compliance obligations for the same emissions and encourages the development of innovative businesses in Washington that align with environmental goals. Overall, the legislation seeks to balance environmental sustainability with economic growth while ensuring that municipal solid waste management systems are treated fairly under state regulations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.65.080