Bill > SB5652

This bill establishes new requirements for qualifying port districts (specifically those authorized to address aircraft noise) to proactively address environmental justice and health disparities. The bill mandates that these port districts develop and implement comprehensive environmental justice implementation plans by including specific goals to reduce environmental and health disparities, create metrics to track progress, and embed equitable community engagement practices. By January 1, 2026, qualifying port districts must also create a community engagement plan that describes how they will interact with overburdened and vulnerable communities, including strategies for identifying and prioritizing these communities, overcoming participation barriers, and ensuring meaningful involvement. For any significant port actions (defined as capital projects over $8 million or actions increasing airport gates), the port districts must obtain an assessment from the University of Washington's environmental and occupational health sciences department to evaluate potential cumulative impacts on vulnerable populations, develop mitigation strategies, and consult directly with affected communities. The bill allows port districts to expend funds to mitigate environmental impacts, remedy past disparate treatments, and contract with entities that can provide expertise in environmental justice. Importantly, the bill does not create a legal right of action against port districts for their implementation of these requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5652&Year=2025&Initiative=false