House committee passes new plan to clean up Puget Sound

Select Committee passes legislation to create new state agency

February 13, 2007

Feb. 5, 2007: Cleaning up Puget Sound Windows Media RealPlayer

OLYMPIA—A bold new proposal aimed at cleaning up the Puget Sound cleared committee in the State House by a resounding 8-0 bi-partisan vote on Tuesday.

The legislation introduced at the request of Gov. Chris Gregoire would create a new state agency called the Puget Sound Partnership. The agency would be tasked with restoring the health of the Puget Sound by 2020 and has an ambitious agenda that includes a new emphasis on science-based results.

Rep. Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Island) who serves as vice-chair of the Select Committee on Puget Sound voiced her support of the bill.

“This is a great proposal I was proud to work on,” said Rolfes. “It will get results by using carrots and not sticks—it rewards those who are partnering in the effort and has a real plan for action—it’s not just talk.”

Currently dozens of state agencies, federal agencies, local governments, not-for-profits, and other environmental organizations address the environmental health of Puget Sound. House bill 1374 provides a framework through which private and public organizations can team together more effectively to help with Puget Sound recovery efforts under one coordinating agency.

The stated action plan includes protecting native species, restoring the health of marine and fresh water habitats, ensuring adequate groundwater levels in rivers and streams, and safeguarding clean water for both drinking and recreation.

“This is a big step forward in restoring the long-term health of our waters,” said Rolfes. “This measure maintains strict accountability and will save us money over time by coordinating efforts. It makes sense and I was glad it received bi-partisan support.”

Another measure (HB 2049) sponsored by Rolfes will receive a public hearing this Friday, February 16. The bill would allow cities and counties bordering the Puget Sound to establish a Marine Resource Committee to address the needs of the local marine ecosystem.

Both measures have until March 14 to be passed out of the House and to the Senate.

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Christine Rolfes (360) 786-7842

Derek Baker (360) 786-7697; baker.derek@leg.wa.gov

Link to Rep. Rolfes’ Website and print quality photo: http://www.housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/rolfes/

House Bill 1374: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1374&year=2007

House Bill 2049: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2049&year=2007

Radio and TV News Directors: To obtain broadcast-quality audio on this issue, or to arrange for TV or radio interviews, please contact Caucus Broadcast Coordinator Dan Frizzell at frizzell_da@leg.wa.gov or (360) 786-7208.