Bill > SB5450

This bill aims to increase transparency regarding sewage spills in Washington state by requiring the Department of Ecology to create a comprehensive public reporting system. By July 1, 2026, the department must develop a public-facing website that provides detailed information about sewage spills, including the volume of discharge, treatment level, date and time of the incident, location, potential impact areas, and containment steps. The website will be designed to be accessible to people with limited English proficiency. By July 1, 2027, the department must also implement a notification system allowing the public to receive basic information about untreated or undertreated sewage spills within four hours during regular business hours. The bill defines key terms such as "combined sewer" (a sewer designed to handle both sanitary and storm water) and "sewage spill" (an unintended discharge of untreated or undertreated wastewater). Additionally, the department is required to publish an annual report by March 15th each year detailing sewage spills from the previous calendar year, including information about impacted waters, duration, volume, and any departmental actions taken. The legislation is motivated by the desire to provide timely information to communities, particularly those who rely on clean water for fishing, aquaculture, recreation, or cultural traditions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5450&Year=2025&Initiative=false