2012 Senate Bill 6311: Requiring alternatives for increasing water for domestic needs in rural areas

Legislation watch

Introduced by Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen, (D-Camano Island) (D) on January 17, 2012, requires the department of ecology to work collaboratively to examine potential alternatives for increasing the amount of water otherwise allocated to rural homeowners and businesses under the water resources act. Requires the department of health, the department of fish and wildlife, and the state building code council to assist the department of ecology in developing viable alternatives that clearly address the needs of homeowners and the home building industry to make these options practical.
- Referred to the Senate Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development Committee on January 17, 2012.
  - Substitute offered in the Senate on February 3, 2012, changes mandated activities to permitted activities performed by the Department of Ecology. Instead of providing a final report to the Legislature by December 10, 2012, a progress report will be enough. Also allows county legislative authorities to establish limited purpose water banks in areas where closures or partial closures are anticipated. The substitute passed by voice vote in the Senate on February 3, 2012.
- Referred to the Senate Rules Committee on February 3, 2012.