The bill amends RCW 88.16.190 to establish new operational requirements for oil tankers in restricted waters of Washington State. It prohibits oil tankers over 125,000 deadweight tons from proceeding beyond a specified line unless authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard. Additionally, it sets conditions for oil tankers between 40,000 and 125,000 deadweight tons to operate in these waters only if they are escorted by tugs with a minimum aggregate shaft horsepower of either 3,000 or five percent of the tanker’s deadweight tons, whichever is greater. Effective September 1, 2020, smaller oil tankers (between 5,000 and 40,000 deadweight tons) and certain barges must also adhere to similar escort requirements.

The bill further clarifies that tankers in ballast or unladen are not required to have tug escorts, and those with a deadweight of less than 40,000 tons at the time of construction are exempt from certain provisions. Definitions for terms such as "articulated tug barge," "oil tanker," and "waterborne vessel or barge" are also provided to ensure clarity in the application of these regulations. The amendments aim to enhance safety and environmental protection in Washington's navigable waters.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 88.16.190