Bill > HB1948

This bill requires large port districts (defined as those authorized to address aircraft noise) to develop and implement comprehensive environmental justice plans to reduce health and environmental disparities, particularly for overburdened and vulnerable communities. Specifically, the bill mandates that qualifying port districts create an environmental justice implementation plan by including specific goals to reduce environmental health disparities, develop metrics to track progress, establish equitable community engagement methods, and ensure compliance with civil rights laws. By January 1, 2026, these ports must also create a detailed community engagement plan that describes how they will identify and prioritize overburdened communities, use screening tools to understand community impacts, and facilitate meaningful community participation. For any significant port actions (defined as capital projects over $8 million or actions increasing airport gates), the port must first obtain an assessment from the University of Washington's environmental health sciences department about potential cumulative impacts on vulnerable populations, develop a mitigation plan, and consult with affected communities. The bill empowers port districts to spend funds on environmental remediation, mitigation, and addressing historical disparities, while explicitly stating that the bill does not create new legal grounds for action against port districts.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1948&Year=2025&Initiative=false