Bill > HB1689

This bill adopts California's emission standards for ocean-going vessels while they are docked at berth in Washington state, with the goal of reducing diesel particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation authorizes the Department of Ecology to implement these standards, which are based on California's regulations in Titles 13 and 17 of their Code of Regulations, and aligns with Section 177 of the federal Clean Air Act. The standards will not take effect before January 1, 2028, and the Department of Ecology can extend the compliance timeline by up to three years if needed. The bill highlights that maritime-related emissions contribute significantly to air pollution, with 20 percent of diesel particulate matter in the Puget Sound region coming from ports, and nearly 40 percent of Americans living near ports facing increased cancer risks from vessel emissions. The legislation also notes potential economic benefits, including job creation related to shore power infrastructure, with projections suggesting 302-526 job-years could be created at the state level. The bill ensures that vessels using shore power will still need to meet existing safety and environmental regulations, and includes a severability clause to protect the overall legislation if any part is found invalid.