Bill > SB5703

This bill addresses the treatment of municipal solid waste systems under Washington's Cap and Invest program. Based on a March 2024 Department of Ecology study, the legislature found that the state's only waste-to-energy system emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to managing and disposing of waste in landfills. The bill creates a narrow exemption for this specific waste-to-energy facility from the Cap and Invest program's emissions requirements, effectively delaying its coverage under the program until January 1, 2036. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 70A.65.080 to add an exemption for a waste-to-energy facility utilized by a county and city solid waste management program that was permitted to receive solid waste before 1992, and which is compliant with existing environmental regulations. This exemption aims to provide equal treatment for the state's municipal solid waste management systems by recognizing the unique characteristics and potentially lower environmental impact of this specific waste-to-energy facility.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5703&Year=2025&Initiative=false