The bill aims to enhance the efficiency of appeals to the Pollution Control Hearings Board by allowing for alternative compositions of the board during permit appeals, contingent upon the consent of all parties involved and unanimous approval from the board itself. Specifically, the new section added to chapter 43.21B RCW permits the board to be composed of an administrative appeals judge, a member from the land use board or shorelines hearings board, or a qualified member of the board, thereby prioritizing the efficient use of administrative resources.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 43.21B.090 to clarify that, except for the provisions outlined in the new section, a majority of the hearings board constitutes a quorum for official business. This amendment maintains the existing structure of the board while allowing for flexibility in its composition during appeals, ultimately aiming to streamline the decision-making process within the board's operations.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.21B.090
Bill as passed Legislature: 43.21B.090
Session law: 43.21B.090