The bill establishes specific greenhouse gas emission reduction requirements for Washington's only waste-to-energy facility, mandating reductions of 20% by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 95% by 2050, based on baseline emissions from 2014 to 2016. It requires the facility's owner or operator to submit a comprehensive report by December 1, 2030, detailing a waste reduction and greenhouse gas emission reduction plan, including a cost-benefit analysis of alternatives. The legislation also clarifies compliance obligations for covered entities regarding emissions reporting and removes previous compliance period specifications for waste-to-energy facilities, while emphasizing community engagement in the planning process.

Additionally, the bill introduces new penalties for non-compliance, including civil penalties for first and repeat offenses, and mandates that the Department of Ecology must approve emission reduction plans that meet established standards. It creates a price ceiling unit emission reduction investment account for penalties and sales of price ceiling units, which must be used for verifiable emissions reductions. The bill also establishes a new chapter in Title 70A of the Revised Code of Washington to enhance the state's management of emissions reductions and compliance with environmental regulations.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70A.65.120
Substitute bill: 70A.65.080, 70A.355.090, 70A.65.400, 70A.65.160