Bill > SB5712

This bill establishes a presumption of compliance for entities covered under the state's industrial stormwater general permit (ISGP), which means these entities will be considered to be meeting water quality standards if they follow specific conditions. The key provisions include: presuming compliance when a permittee fully follows all permit conditions, implements approved stormwater best management practices, and promptly notifies the Department of Ecology if they identify a potential water quality violation. If a potential violation is identified, the permittee must provide a detailed written notification explaining the issue and steps taken to address it. The bill also addresses sampling requirements for transportation facilities, stating that sampling should not be required if it would endanger the health and safety of personnel conducting the sampling. The legislation aims to mitigate potential adverse impacts of the industrial stormwater permit, including reducing the threat of third-party litigation, protecting employee safety, and allowing businesses to focus resources on environmental impact reduction rather than legal defense. The bill recognizes the unique challenges of stormwater management and seeks to provide a more flexible, adaptive approach to compliance that balances environmental protection with practical considerations for regulated entities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5712&Year=2025&Initiative=false