Bill > HB2634

This bill aims to improve the management of radioactive waste and the cleanup of hazardous substance releases in Washington state, with particular attention to the treaty rights of federally recognized tribes. It mandates a thorough investigation of the state's commercial low-level radioactive waste disposal facility, which is identified as a leaking, unlined landfill that is contaminating groundwater flowing to the Columbia River. The bill requires the development of a remediation plan that considers tribal exposure scenarios and ensures that cleanup standards are protective of tribal health and resources. Furthermore, it prohibits the disposal of waste from new commercial nuclear reactors at the current facility until it is fully investigated and remediated, or until an alternative, properly lined disposal facility is operational in another state. The bill also establishes new fees for generators of radioactive waste, particularly from commercial nuclear reactors, to fund the investigation and cleanup efforts, and clarifies that the responsible parties, not taxpayers, should bear these costs. Finally, it amends existing laws to reflect these new provisions, including requirements for environmental review and the approval process for new nuclear reactors.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2634&Year=2025&Initiative=false