Bill > HB1922

This bill amends existing Washington state law regarding hydraulic project approvals, specifically addressing the placement of woody debris after extreme weather events or natural disasters. The bill requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife to consider several factors when determining woody debris placement requirements for emergency response work, including the emergency nature of the work, urban development limitations, potential flooding risks, debris accumulation concerns, and the proportionate benefits of mitigation. The department must now evaluate woody debris replacement using a more flexible approach that prioritizes substantial mitigation over strict one-to-one replacement, and limits the required replacement to woody debris from the initial occurrence. Additionally, the department is instructed to apply these factors consistently across different river basins experiencing severe weather events, aiming to provide equal treatment for project applicants and similar response outcomes. The bill is declared an emergency measure, meaning it takes effect immediately upon passage, with the goal of supporting public safety and effective environmental management during and after natural disasters.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1922&Year=2025&Initiative=false