Bill > HB2509

This bill aims to streamline the review process for energy facility applications by the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC). It establishes a specialized council for electrical transmission facilities, composed of the chair and two appointed members with expertise in environmental regulations, energy infrastructure, land use, and tribal consultation, with at least one member being a practicing attorney. The bill also modifies the hearing process for electrical transmission facilities, requiring an adjudicative hearing but limiting its scope to specific impact categories and establishing clear decisional criteria for the council's recommendations. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for categorical exemptions from environmental review for certain wind generation facility repowering projects, allowing for site preparation and construction to begin under specific conditions and at the applicant's risk. Finally, the bill expands the types of facilities eligible for expedited processing, including solar, onshore wind, electricity storage, and transmission lines, provided they meet certain environmental impact and tribal consultation requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2509&Year=2025&Initiative=false