This bill aims to modify the implementation of water buffer rules for nonfish bearing streams as adopted by the forest practices board in Washington state. It highlights concerns that the recent rule-making process undermines the original intent of the forests and fish law established in 1999, which was designed to protect streams and habitats while considering the economic impacts on the timber industry. The bill asserts that the new rules could lead to significant economic harm, particularly for small businesses, by removing over 200,000 acres from productive harvest without providing substantial benefits to habitat conservation.

To address these concerns, the bill mandates the repeal of the changes made to specific Washington Administrative Codes (WAC) on November 12, 2025, and prohibits the forest practices board from adopting similar rules in the future. Additionally, it requires that any new rules regarding stream type buffers must be preceded by a thorough analysis of alternative proposals and a consensus recommendation that takes into account the economic impacts on small forest landowners. This approach aims to ensure that all stakeholders are considered in the decision-making process before implementing any new regulations.