title: RCW 43.31.605

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of funds for this purpose, the landlord mitigation program is created and administered by the department. The department shall have such rule-making authority as the department deems necessary to administer the program.
The following types of claims related to landlord mitigation are eligible for reimbursement from the landlord mitigation program account:
(a) Claims relating to renting private market rental units to low-income tenants using a housing subsidy program for:
(i) Up to one thousand dollars for improvements identified in RCW 59.18.255(1)(a). In order to be eligible for reimbursement under this subsection (1)(a)(i), the landlord must pay for the first five hundred dollars for improvements, and rent to the tenant whose housing subsidy program was conditioned on the real property passing inspection. Reimbursement under this subsection (1)(a)(i) may also include up to fourteen days of lost rental income from the date of offer of housing to the applicant whose housing subsidy program was conditioned on the real property passing inspection until move in by that applicant;
(ii) Reimbursement for damages as reflected in a judgment obtained against the tenant through either an unlawful detainer proceeding, or through a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction after a hearing;
(iii) Reimbursement for damages established pursuant to subsection (2) of this section; and
(iv) Reimbursement for unpaid rent and unpaid utilities, provided that the landlord can evidence it to the department's satisfaction.
(b) Claims related to landlord mitigation for an unpaid judgment for rent, unpaid judgments resulting from the tenant's failure to comply with an installment payment agreement identified in RCW 59.18.610, late fees, attorneys' fees, and costs after a court order pursuant to RCW 59.18.410(3), including any unpaid portion of the judgment after the tenant defaults on the payment plan pursuant to RCW 59.18.410(3)(c), are eligible for reimbursement from the landlord mitigation program account and are exempt from any postjudgment interest required under RCW 4.56.110. Any claim for reimbursement made pursuant to RCW 59.18.410(3)(e)(ii) must be accompanied by a court order staying the writ of restitution pursuant to RCW 59.18.410(3). Any claim for reimbursement under this subsection (1)(b) is not an entitlement.
(i) The department shall provide for a form on its website for tenants and landlords to apply for reimbursement funds for the landlord pursuant to this subsection (1)(b).
(ii) The form must include: (A) Space for the landlord and tenant to provide names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, date of birth for the tenant, and any other identifying information necessary for the department to process payment; (B) the landlord's statewide vendor identification number and how to obtain one; (C) name and address to whom payment must be made; (D) the amount of the judgment with instructions to include any other supporting documentation the department may need to process payment; (E) instructions for how the tenant is to reimburse the department under (b)(iii) of this subsection; (F) a description of the consequences if the tenant does not reimburse the department as provided in this subsection (1)(b); (G) a signature line for the landlord and tenant to confirm that they have read and understood the contents of the form and program; and (H) any other information necessary for the operation of the program. If the tenant has not signed the form after the landlord has made good faith efforts to obtain the tenant's signature, the landlord may solely submit the form but must attest to the amount of money owed and sign the form under penalty of perjury.
(iii) When a landlord has been reimbursed pursuant to this subsection (1)(b), the tenant for whom payment was made shall reimburse the department by depositing the amount disbursed from the landlord mitigation program account into the court registry of the superior court in which the judgment was entered. The tenant or other interested party may seek an ex parte order of the court under the unlawful detainer action to order such funds to be disbursed by the court. Upon entry of the order, the court clerk shall disburse the funds and include a case number with any payment issued to the department. If directed by the court, a clerk shall issue any payments made by a tenant to the department without further court order.
(iv) The department may deny an application made by a tenant who has failed to reimburse the department for prior payments issued pursuant to this subsection (1)(b).
(v) With any disbursement from the account to the landlord, the department shall notify the tenant at the address provided within the application that a disbursement has been made to the landlord on the tenant's behalf and that failure to reimburse the account for the payment through the court registry may result in a denial of a future application to the account pursuant to this subsection (1)(b). The department may include any other additional information about how to reimburse the account it deems necessary to fully inform the tenant.
(vi) The department's duties with respect to obtaining reimbursement from the tenant to the account are limited to those specified within this subsection (1)(b).
(vii) If at any time funds do not exist in the landlord mitigation program account to reimburse claims submitted under this subsection (1)(b), the department must create and maintain a waitlist and distribute funds in the order the claims are received pursuant to subsection (6) of this section. Payment of any claims on the waitlist shall be made only from the landlord mitigation program account. The department shall not be civilly or criminally liable and may not have any penalty or cause of action of any nature arise against it regarding the provision or lack of provision of funds for reimbursement.
(c)(i) Claims related to unpaid rent for:
(A) Up to $15,000 in unpaid rent that accrued between March 1, 2020, and six months following the expiration of the eviction moratorium and the tenant being low-income, limited resourced or experiencing hardship, voluntarily vacated or abandoned the tenancy; or
(B) Up to $15,000 in remaining unpaid rent if a tenant defaults on a repayment plan entered into under RCW 59.18.630 are eligible for reimbursement from the landlord mitigation program account subject to the program requirements under this section, provided the tenancy has not been terminated at the time of reimbursement.
(ii) A landlord is ineligible for reimbursement under this subsection (1)(c) where the tenant vacated the tenancy because of an unlawful detainer action under RCW 59.12.030(3).
(iii) A landlord in receipt of reimbursement from the program pursuant to this subsection (1)(c) is prohibited from:
(A) Taking legal action against the tenant for damages or any remaining unpaid rent accrued between March 1, 2020, and six months following the expiration of the eviction moratorium attributable to the same tenancy; or
(B) Pursuing collection, or authorizing another entity to pursue collection on the landlord's behalf, of a judgment against the tenant for damages or any remaining unpaid rent accrued between March 1, 2020, and six months following the expiration of the eviction moratorium attributable to the same tenancy.
(d)(i) Claims, up to $5,000, related to landlord mitigation for damages to rental property when:
(A) A tenant has terminated a rental agreement pursuant to RCW 59.18.575;
(B) The property has sustained damage beyond wear resulting from ordinary use of the premises;
(C) The landlord has, within the time limits specified in RCW 59.18.280, provided the tenant with a full and specific statement;
(D) The landlord has, rather than retaining any of the damage deposit, returned the full damage deposit to the tenant; and
(E) The landlord has agreed not to proceed against the tenant to recover the balance owed.
(ii) Any claim for reimbursement under this subsection (1)(d) is not an entitlement.
(iii) If at any time funds do not exist in the landlord mitigation program account to reimburse claims submitted under this subsection (1)(d), the department must create and maintain a waitlist and distribute funds in the order the claims are received pursuant to subsection (6) of this section. Payment of any claims on the waitlist shall be made only from the landlord mitigation program account. The department is not civilly or criminally liable and may not have any penalty or cause of action of any nature arise against it regarding the provision or lack of provision of funds for reimbursement.
(iv) The department shall provide for a form on its website for landlords to apply for reimbursement funds for the landlord pursuant to this subsection (1)(d).
(v) The department shall provide for the confidentiality of tenants' personal information and shall have such rule-making authority as is necessary to protect the personal information of tenants under this subsection (1)(d).
(2) In order for a claim under subsection (1)(a)(iii) or (d) of this section to be eligible for reimbursement from the landlord mitigation program account, a landlord must:
(a) Have ensured that the rental property was inspected at the commencement of the tenancy by both the tenant and the landlord or landlord's agent and that a detailed written move-in property inspection report, as required in RCW 59.18.260, was prepared and signed by both the tenant and the landlord or landlord's agent;
(b) Make repairs and then apply for reimbursement to the department;
(c) Submit a claim on a form to be determined by the department, signed under penalty of perjury; and
(d) Submit to the department copies of the move-in property inspection report specified in (a) of this subsection and supporting materials including, but not limited to, before repair and after repair photographs, videos, copies of repair receipts for labor and materials, and such other documentation or information as the department may request.
(3)(a) The department shall make reasonable efforts to review a claim within ten business days from the date it received properly submitted and complete claims to the satisfaction of the department.
(b) In reviewing a claim pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section, and determining eligibility for reimbursement, the department must receive documentation, acceptable to the department in its sole discretion, that the claim involves a private market rental unit rented to a low-income tenant who is using a housing subsidy program.
(c) In reviewing a claim pursuant to subsection (1)(d)(i) of this section, and determining eligibility for reimbursement, the department must receive documentation, acceptable to the department in its sole discretion, that the claim involves a tenancy that was terminated pursuant to RCW 59.18.575 and that all of the requirements of subsection (1)(d)(i) of this section have been met.
(4) Claims pursuant to subsection (1)(a) of this section related to a tenancy must total at least five hundred dollars in order for a claim to be eligible for reimbursement from the program. While claims or damages may exceed five thousand dollars, total reimbursement from the program may not exceed five thousand dollars per tenancy. For the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium, while claims or damages may exceed $10,000, total reimbursement from the program may not exceed $10,000 per tenancy.
(5) Damages, beyond wear and tear, that are eligible for reimbursement include, but are not limited to: Interior wall gouges and holes; damage to doors and cabinets, including hardware; carpet stains or burns; cracked tiles or hard surfaces; broken windows; damage to household fixtures such as disposal, toilet, sink, sink handle, ceiling fan, and lighting. Other property damages beyond normal wear and tear may also be eligible for reimbursement at the department's discretion.
(6) All reimbursements for eligible claims shall be made on a first-come, first-served basis, to the extent of available funds. The department shall use best efforts to notify the tenant of the amount and the reasons for any reimbursements made.
(7) The department, in its sole discretion, may inspect the property and the landlord's records related to a claim, including the use of a third-party inspector as needed to investigate fraud, to assist in making its claim review and determination of eligibility.
(8) A landlord in receipt of reimbursement from the program pursuant to subsection (1)(a) or (d) of this section is prohibited from:
(a) Taking legal action against the tenant for damages attributable to the same tenancy; or
(b) Pursuing collection, or authorizing another entity to pursue collection on the landlord's behalf, of a judgment against the tenant for damages attributable to the same tenancy.
(9) A landlord denied reimbursement under subsection (1)(a)(iii) of this section may seek to obtain a judgment from a court of competent jurisdiction and, if successful, may resubmit a claim for damages supported by the judgment, along with a certified copy of the judgment. The department may reimburse the landlord for that portion of such judgment that is based on damages reimbursable under the landlord mitigation program, subject to the limitations set forth in this section.
(10) Determinations regarding reimbursements shall be made by the department in its sole discretion.
(11) The department must establish a website that advertises the landlord mitigation program, the availability of reimbursement from the landlord mitigation program account, and maintains or links to the agency rules and policies established pursuant to this section.
(12) Neither the state, the department, or persons acting on behalf of the department, while acting within the scope of their employment or agency, is liable to any person for any loss, damage, harm, or other consequence resulting directly or indirectly from the department's administration of the landlord mitigation program or determinations under this section.
(13)(a) A report to the appropriate committees of the legislature on the effectiveness of the program and recommended modifications shall be submitted to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature by January 1, 2021. In preparing the report, the department shall convene and solicit input from a group of stakeholders to include representatives of large multifamily housing property owners or managers, small rental housing owners in both rural and urban markets, a representative of tenant advocates, and a representative of the housing authorities.
(b) The report shall include discussion of the effectiveness of the program as well as the department's recommendations to improve the program, and shall include the following:
(i) The number of total claims and total amount reimbursed to landlords by the fund;
(ii) Any indices of fraud identified by the department;
(iii) Any reports by the department regarding inspections authorized by and conducted on behalf of the department;
(iv) An outline of the process to obtain reimbursement for improvements and for damages from the fund;
(v) An outline of the process to obtain reimbursement for lost rent due to the rental inspection and tenant screening process, together with the total amount reimbursed for such damages;
(vi) An evaluation of the feasibility for expanding the use of the mitigation fund to provide up to ninety-day no interest loans to landlords who have not received timely rental payments from a housing authority that is administering section 8 rental assistance; and
(vii) Any other modifications and recommendations made by stakeholders to improve the effectiveness and applicability of the program.
(14) As used in this section:
(a) "Housing subsidy program" means a housing voucher as established under 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1437 as of January 1, 2018, or other housing subsidy program including, but not limited to, valid short-term or long-term federal, state, or local government, private nonprofit, or other assistance program in which the tenant's rent is paid either partially by the program and partially by the tenant, or completely by the program directly to the landlord;
(b) "Low-income" means income that does not exceed eighty percent of the median income for the standard metropolitan statistical area in which the rental unit is located; and
(c) "Private market rental unit" means any unit available for rent that is owned by an individual, corporation, limited liability company, nonprofit housing provider, or other entity structure, but does not include housing acquired, or constructed by a public housing agency under 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1437 as it existed on January 1, 2018. This definition only applies to claims for mitigation under subsection (1)(a) of this section and does not exclude public housing agencies from making claims under subsection (1)(b), (c), or (d) of this section.
[ 2022 c 297 s 952; 2022 c 196 s 2; 2021 c 115 s 5. Prior: 2020 c 315 s 8; 2020 c 169 s 2; 2019 c 356 s 12; 2018 c 66 s 2.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2022 c 196 s 2 and by 2022 c 297 s 952, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Effective date—2022 c 297: See note following RCW 43.79.565.
Finding—Intent—2022 c 196: "The legislature finds that domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, and stalking are acts of violence that have devastating effects upon individual victims, their children, their communities, and the state as a whole. These acts of violence threaten the housing stability of many residents of this state. Victims of these violent acts may be forced to remain in unsafe and abusive situations because they do not have the financial wherewithal to obtain alternate housing. It is the long-standing practice of the state to provide rental assistance to its residents in a variety of urgent situations. By this act, the legislature intends to increase safety for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, unlawful harassment, and stalking by removing some of the financial barriers to safely obtaining alternate housing and thereby contribute to the general welfare of the state." [ 2022 c 196 s 1.]
Finding—Intent—Application—Effective date—2021 c 115: See notes following RCW 59.18.620.
Effective date—2020 c 315 ss 5-8: See note following RCW 59.18.410.
Findings—Intent—2020 c 315: See note following RCW 59.18.057.
Intent—2019 c 356: See note following RCW 59.12.030.

catchline: Landlord mitigation program—Department to administer and have rule-making authority—Claims—Eligibility for reimbursement—Review—Damages—Inspection—Landlords prohibited from certain acts—Denial of reimbursement—Department to establish website—Liability—Report, recommendations.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 43.31.615

text:
(1) The landlord mitigation program account is created in the custody of the state treasury. All transfers and appropriations by the legislature, repayments, private contributions, and all other sources must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may only be used for the landlord mitigation program under this chapter to reimburse landlords for eligible claims related to private market rental units during the time of their rental to low-income tenants using housing subsidy programs as defined in RCW 43.31.605, for any unpaid judgment issued within an unlawful detainer action after a court order pursuant to RCW 59.18.410(3) as described in RCW 43.31.605(1)(b), for any unpaid rent as described in RCW 43.31.605(1)(c), for any damages to rental property as described in RCW 43.31.605(1)(d), and for the administrative costs identified in subsection (2) of this section. Only the director or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
(2) Administrative costs associated with application, distribution, and other program activities of the department may not exceed twenty percent of the annual funds available for the landlord mitigation program. Reappropriations must not be included in the calculation of the annual funds available for determining the administrative costs.
(3) Funds deposited into the landlord mitigation program account shall be prioritized by the department for allowable costs under RCW 43.31.605(1) (a) and (d), and may only be used for other allowable costs when funding available in the account exceeds the amount needed to pay claims under RCW 43.31.605(1) (a) and (d).
[ 2022 c 196 s 6; 2021 c 115 s 6; 2019 c 356 s 13; 2018 c 66 s 3.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2022 c 196: See note following RCW 43.31.605.
Finding—Intent—Application—Effective date—2021 c 115: See notes following RCW 59.18.620.
Intent—2019 c 356: See note following RCW 59.12.030.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Landlord mitigation program account.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 43.31.625

text:
(1) An industrial waste coordination program is established in order to provide expertise, technical assistance, and best practices to support local industrial symbiosis projects.
(2) The industrial waste coordination program must be administered by the department of commerce and administered regionally, with each region provided with a dedicated facilitator and technical and administrative support.
(3) The industrial waste coordination program must facilitate waste exchange by:
(a) Developing inventories of industrial waste innovation currently in operation;
(b) Generating a material flow data collection system in order to capture and manage data on resource availability and potential synergies;
(c) Establishing guidance and best practices for emerging local industrial resource hubs, which must include a consideration of steps to avoid creating or worsening negative impacts to overburdened communities as identified by tools such as the department of health's environmental health disparities map;
(d) Identifying access to capital in order to fund projects, including federal, state, local, and private funding;
(e) Developing economic, environmental, and health disparities metrics to measure the results of industrial or commercial hubs;
(f) Hosting workshops and connecting regional businesses, governments, utilities, research institutions, and other organizations in order to identify opportunities for resource collaboration;
(g) Assisting entities throughout the entire life cycle of industrial symbiosis projects, from identification of opportunities to full project implementation;
(h) Developing economic cluster initiatives in order to spur growth and innovation; and
(i) Making any additional recommendations to the legislature in order to incentivize and facilitate industrial symbiosis.
(4) The department of commerce may coordinate with other agencies, representatives of business and manufacturing networks, and other entities in order to develop material flow generation data and increase multisectoral outreach.
(5) In generating the material flow data collection system under subsections (3)(b) and (4) of this section, the department of commerce may only use publicly available data or data voluntarily provided by program participants. No entity may be required to disclose material flow data. The department of commerce must keep any proprietary business information confidential and such information is exempt from public disclosure, as provided in RCW 42.56.270.
[ 2021 c 308 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 308: "The legislature finds that industrial symbiosis networks create valuable collaborative opportunities where the underutilized resources of one company, such as waste, by-products, residues, energy, water, logistics, capacity, expertise, equipment, and materials may be used by another. The legislature further finds that many existing businesses and organizations in the state have the potential to partner in the establishment of these networks, and the formation of industrial symbiosis innovation hubs at the state and local level would facilitate a systems approach that identifies business opportunities to improve resource utilization and productivity for a more sustainable and integrated industrial economy.
Therefore, the legislature intends to establish a statewide industrial waste coordination program in order to nurture and coordinate existing industrial symbiosis efforts and to catalyze new industrial symbiosis opportunities. Furthermore, the legislature intends to establish the program in order to: Find ways of turning waste and by-products into valued resource inputs; reduce waste management costs; generate new business opportunities; increase the size and diversity of business networks; identify means of improving environmental performance; achieve environmental justice in goals and policies; incentivize pathways to family-wage, green jobs; expand the regional circular economy; and drive innovation." [ 2021 c 308 s 1.]

catchline: Industrial waste coordination program.


title: RCW 43.31.635

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, a competitive industrial symbiosis grant program is established in order to provide grants for the research, development, and deployment of local waste coordination projects.
(2) Grants may go towards:
(a) Existing industrial symbiosis efforts by public or private sector organizations;
(b) Emerging industrial symbiosis opportunities involving public or private sector organizations, including projects arising from:
(i) The industrial waste coordination program established in RCW 43.31.625;
(ii) Conceptual work completed by public utilities to redirect their wastes to productive use; or
(iii) Existing inventories or project concepts involving specific biobased wastes converted to renewable natural gas;
(c) Research on product development using a specific waste flow;
(d) Feasibility studies to evaluate potential biobased resources;
(e) Feasibility studies for publicly owned utilities to evaluate business models to transform to multiutility operations or for the evaluation of potential symbiosis connections with other regional businesses; or
(f) Other local waste coordination projects as determined by the department of commerce.
(3) The department of commerce must develop a method and criteria for the allocation of grants, subject to the following:
(a) Project allocation should reflect geographic diversity, with grants being distributed equally in western and eastern parts of the state, urban and rural areas, and small towns and large cities;
(b) Project allocation should consider factors such as time to implementation and scale of economic or environmental benefits;
(c) Grants must require a one-to-one nonstate to state match;
(d) Individual grant awards may not exceed $500,000; and
(e) Project allocation should avoid creating or worsening environmental health disparities and should make use of tools such as the department of health's environmental health disparities map.
[ 2021 c 308 s 3.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 308: See note following RCW 43.31.625.

catchline: Industrial symbiosis grant program.


title: RCW 43.31.645

text:
The sustainable aviation fuel account is created in the state treasury. The account shall consist of concession fees collected and deposited into the account pursuant to RCW 19.430.020. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Moneys in the account may be expended by the department for activities supporting research development, environmental review, and infrastructure to support the production of sustainable aviation fuel.
[ 2025 c 406 s 4.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2025 c 406: See notes following RCW 19.430.010.

catchline: Sustainable aviation fuel account.


title: RCW 43.31.648

text:
The sustainable aviation fuel airport infrastructure account is created in the state treasury. All receipts from RCW 82.42.090(2) must be deposited into the account. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Expenditures from the account may be used only for activities at airports that support sustainable aviation fuel infrastructure improvement projects and sustainable aviation fuel infrastructure preservation projects.
[ 2026 c 255 s 409.]
Notes:
Intent—2026 c 255: See note following RCW 82.08.020.

catchline: Sustainable aviation fuel airport infrastructure account.


title: RCW 43.31.801

text:
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department of commerce shall establish and administer a disaster relief payment program to provide assistance to qualifying property owners and local governments that had buildings destroyed or damaged in a wildfire occurring between August 1 and October 1, 2023. The department shall develop a system for the submission and evaluation of disaster relief payment applications in consultation with the emergency management division of the state military department and tribal and local government emergency management authorities. The system developed by the department must ensure that the disaster relief payments are only used for the purposes specified in this section.
(2) Disaster relief payments may only be awarded to property owners who had buildings damaged or destroyed during a wildfire and that meet the following criteria:
(a) The area in which the building was damaged or destroyed was under a state of emergency declared by the governor or a local government due to wildfires occurring in a county located to the east of the crest of the Cascade mountains with a population of at least 500,000;
(b) The building that was damaged or destroyed was a residential home, including manufactured homes, a multifamily building, a commercial building, or a public building;
(c) The same type of building as was damaged or destroyed in the wildfire is being constructed or repaired; and
(d) The new or repaired building will comply with all current state building and state energy code requirements in effect at the time of the permit application for the construction or repair.
(3) Disaster relief payments awarded under this section may only be used for the purpose of meeting increased energy efficiency standards, providing or increasing electric vehicle charging capacity, and the installation and use of solar panels on a building that did not, prior to being damaged or destroyed, utilize solar panels.
(4) The department shall develop criteria for awarding disaster relief payments under this section that is consistent with RCW 38.52.030(9) and, as appropriate, with other disaster response and recovery programs. When awarding disaster relief payments, the department must prioritize any building that is owned or rented by a low-income to moderate-income household. Thereafter, the department must award disaster relief payments based upon the amount of energy efficiency, electric vehicle charging capacity, or solar panels installation that will occur, with disaster relief payments going first to those buildings which will yield the greatest environmental benefits.
(5) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Increased energy efficiency standards" means energy code standards under chapter 19.27A RCW that have increased between the time the building was originally constructed and the time that it is to be repaired or rebuilt.
(b) "Local government" means a city, town, county, or special purpose district.
(c) "Low-income or moderate-income household" means a single person, family, or unrelated persons living together whose adjusted income is at or below 120 percent of the median household income adjusted for household size, for the county where the household is located, as reported by the United States department of housing and urban development.
(d) "Public building" means a building or building wholly owned and used by a local government.
[ 2024 c 143 s 2.]
Notes:
Findings—Intent—2024 c 143: "In recent years, devastating wildfires have destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure. These wildfires have become more frequent and more destructive due to the effects of climate change. Since the original construction of many of the lost structures, technological advances have made possible more energy efficient buildings, greater use of electric vehicles, and more opportunities to utilize solar energy. The insurance coverage for the destroyed structures, however, may not cover reconstruction utilizing new methods and technologies. As a result, many buildings may be rebuilt in less efficient ways that require greater use of greenhouse gases. These greenhouse gases, in turn, will exacerbate the threat of wildfires.
It is the intent of the legislature to assist in disrupting this cycle. By making disaster relief payments available to local governments, businesses, and individuals to repair or replace damaged or destroyed buildings in more energy efficient and environmentally friendly ways, the legislature will encourage a more sustainable use of resources and increased climate resilience with resulting environmental benefits for all of the people of the state. It is the intent of the legislature that the assistance provided in this act be considered disaster relief payments by the internal revenue service." [ 2024 c 143 s 1.]
Effective date—2024 c 143: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 18, 2024]." [ 2024 c 143 s 3.]

catchline: 2023 wildfires—Disaster relief payment program.


title: RCW 43.31.802

text:
(1) The department of commerce must contract with the governor's office of Indian affairs to, in coordination with the department of ecology and the department of commerce, convene federally recognized Indian tribes whose traditional lands and territories include parts of Washington state to develop a recommended tribal consultation framework applicable to statewide electric transmission planning and implementation including, but not limited to, activities associated with RCW 43.21F.800 and 43.52B.020 through 43.52B.050.
(2) The tribal consultation framework must:
(a) Identify the roles and responsibilities of state agencies engaged in electric transmission planning, siting, permitting, and implementation, and existing policies and any existing gaps regarding tribal consultation;
(b) Establish standards for early, meaningful, and ongoing government-to-government consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes consistent with the 1989 Centennial Accord and applicable state and federal law as it relates to the activities conducted by the Washington electric transmission authority established in RCW 43.52B.030;
(c) Provide a mechanism for legislative engagement and transparency during the development and future implementation of the framework; and
(d) Include recommendations for statutory, administrative, or budgetary actions necessary to implement the framework in future legislation.
(3) The governor's office of Indian affairs, in coordination with the department of ecology and the department of commerce, must submit a report to the appropriate committees of the legislature and the governor by December 1, 2026, that summarizes the recommended tribal consultation framework and identifies proposed statutory or administrative changes.
[ 2026 c 249 s 8.]

catchline: Electric transmission—Tribal consultation framework—Report.


title: RCW 43.31.859

text:
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in chapter 41.06 RCW or any other provision of law, the department may contract to provide funding to a successor organization under *RCW 43.31.856 to carry out activities of the organization that are consistent with the department's powers and duties. All moneys for contracts entered into under this section are subject to appropriation.
[ 1999 c 299 s 4.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.31.856 was repealed by 1999 c 299 s 6, effective June 30, 2002.

catchline: Rural development council—Successor organization—Funding.


title: RCW 43.31.970

text:
The department of commerce must distribute to local governments model ordinances, model development regulations, and guidance for local governments for siting and installing electric vehicle infrastructure, and in particular battery charging stations, and appropriate handling, recycling, and storage of electric vehicle batteries and equipment, when available. The model ordinances, model development regulations, and guidance must be developed by a federal or state agency, or nationally recognized organizations with specific expertise in land-use regulations or electric vehicle infrastructure.
[ 2023 c 470 s 2046; 2009 c 459 s 18.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.
Finding—Purpose—2009 c 459: See note following RCW 47.80.090.
Regional transportation planning organizations—Electric vehicle infrastructure: RCW 47.80.090.

catchline: Electric vehicle infrastructure.


title: RCW 43.31.980

text:
(1) Beginning December 1, 2018, and each year thereafter, the department of commerce must prepare an annual report on the impact fee deferral process established in RCW 82.02.050(3). The report must include: (a) The number of deferrals requested of and issued by counties, cities, and towns; (b) the number of deferrals that were not fully and timely paid; and (c) other information as deemed appropriate.
(2) The report required by this section must, in accordance with RCW 43.01.036, be submitted to the appropriate committees of the house of representatives and the senate.
[ 2015 c 241 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2015 c 241: See note following RCW 82.02.050.

catchline: Impact fee annual report.


title: RCW 43.310.005

text:
The legislature finds and declares that:
(1) The number of youth who are members and associates of gangs and commit gang violence has significantly increased throughout the entire greater Puget Sound, Spokane, and other areas of the state;
(2) Youth gang violence has caused a tremendous strain on the progress of the communities impacted. The loss of life, property, and positive opportunity for growth caused by youth gang violence has reached intolerable levels. Increased youth gang activity has seriously strained the budgets of many local jurisdictions, as well as threatened the ability of the educational system to educate our youth;
(3) Among youth gang members the high school dropout rate is significantly higher than among nongang members. Since the economic future of our state depends on a highly educated and skilled workforce, this high school dropout rate threatens the economic welfare of our future workforce, as well as the future economic growth of our state;
(4) The unemployment rate among youth gang members is higher than that among the general youth population. The unusual unemployment rate, lack of education and skills, and the increased criminal activity could significantly impact our future prison population;
(5) Most youth gangs are subcultural. This implies that gangs provide the nurturing, discipline, and guidance to gang youth and potential gang youth that is generally provided by communities and other social systems. The subcultural designation means that youth gang participation and violence can be effectively reduced in Washington communities and schools through the involvement of community, educational, criminal justice, and employment systems working in a unified manner with parents and individuals who have a firsthand knowledge of youth gangs and at-risk youth; and
(6) A strong unified effort among parents and community, educational, criminal justice, and employment systems would facilitate: (a) The learning process; (b) the control and reduction of gang violence; (c) the prevention of youth joining negative gangs; and (d) the intervention into youth gangs.
[ 1993 c 497 s 1.]

catchline: Finding.


title: RCW 43.310.007

text:
It is the intent of the legislature to cause the development of positive prevention and intervention pilot programs for elementary and secondary age youth through cooperation between individual schools, local organizations, and government. It is also the intent of the legislature that if the prevention and intervention pilot programs are determined to be effective in reducing problems associated with youth gang violence, that other counties in the state be eligible to receive special state funding to establish similar positive prevention and intervention programs.
[ 1993 c 497 s 2.]

catchline: Intent—Prevention and intervention pilot programs.


title: RCW 43.310.010

text:
Unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions shall apply throughout RCW 43.310.005 through 43.310.040 and *sections 5 and 7 through 10, chapter 497, Laws of 1993:
(1) "School" means any public school within a school district any portion of which is in a county with a population of over one hundred ninety thousand.
(2) "Community organization" means any organization recognized by a city or county as such, as well as private, nonprofit organizations registered with the secretary of state.
(3) "Gang risk prevention and intervention pilot program" means a community-based positive prevention and intervention program for gang members, potential gang members, at-risk youth, and elementary through high school-aged youth directed at all of the following:
(a) Reducing the probability of youth involvement in gang activities and consequent violence.
(b) Establishing ties, at an early age, between youth and community organizations.
(c) Committing local business and community resources to positive programming for youth.
(d) Committing state resources to assist in creating the gang risk prevention and intervention pilot programs.
(4) "Cultural awareness retreat" means a program that temporarily relocates at-risk youth or gang members and their parents from their usual social environment to a different social environment, with the specific purpose of having them performing activities which will enhance or increase their positive behavior and potential life successes.
[ 1993 c 497 s 3.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: Sections 5 and 7 through 10, chapter 497, Laws of 1993 were vetoed.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 43.310.020

text:
(1) The department of commerce may recommend existing programs or contract with either school districts or community organizations, or both, through a request for proposal process for the development, administration, and implementation in the county of community-based gang risk prevention and intervention pilot programs.
(2) Proposals by the school district for gang risk prevention and intervention pilot program grant funding shall begin with school years no sooner than the 1994-95 session, and last for a duration of two years.
(3) The school district or community organization proposal shall include:
(a) A description of the program goals, activities, and curriculum. The description of the program goals shall include a list of measurable objectives for the purpose of evaluation by the department of commerce. To the extent possible, proposals shall contain empirical data on current problems, such as dropout rates and occurrences of violence on and off campus by school-age individuals.
(b) A description of the individual school or schools and the geographic area to be affected by the program.
(c) A demonstration of broad-based support for the program from business and community organizations.
(d) A clear description of the experience, expertise, and other qualifications of the community organizations to conduct an effective prevention and intervention program in cooperation with a school or a group of schools.
(e) A proposed budget for expenditure of the grant.
(4) Grants awarded under this section may not be used for the administrative costs of the school district or the individual school.
[ 2023 c 470 s 2078; 1995 c 399 s 116; 1993 c 497 s 4.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2023 c 470: See note following RCW 10.99.030.

catchline: Gang risk prevention and intervention pilot programs—Request for proposals.


title: RCW 43.310.030

text:
Gang risk prevention and intervention pilot programs shall include, but are not limited to:
(1) Counseling for targeted at-risk students, parents, and families, individually and collectively.
(2) Exposure to positive sports and cultural activities, promoting affiliations between youth and the local community.
(3) Job training, which may include apprentice programs in coordination with local businesses, job skills development at the school, or information about vocational opportunities in the community.
(4) Positive interaction with local law enforcement personnel.
(5) The use of local organizations to provide job search training skills.
(6) Cultural awareness retreats.
(7) The use of specified state resources, as requested.
(8) Full service schools under *section 9 of this act.
(9) Community service such as volunteerism and citizenship.
[ 1993 c 497 s 6.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: Section 9, chapter 497, Laws of 1993 was vetoed.

catchline: Gang risk prevention and intervention pilot programs—Scope.


title: RCW 43.310.040

text:
Cultural awareness retreats shall include but are not limited to the following programs:
(1) To develop positive attitudes and self-esteem.
(2) To develop youth decision-making ability.
(3) To assist with career development and educational development.
(4) To help develop respect for the community, and ethnic origin.
[ 1993 c 497 s 11.]

catchline: Cultural awareness retreats.


title: RCW 43.31C.005

text:
(1) The legislature finds that:
(a) There are geographic areas within communities that are characterized by a lack of employment opportunities, an average income level that is below the median income level for the surrounding community, a lack of affordable housing, deteriorating infrastructure, and a lack of facilities for community services, job training, and education;
(b) Strategies to encourage reinvestment in these areas by assisting local businesses to become stronger and area residents to gain economic power involve a variety of activities and partnerships;
(c) Reinvestment in these areas cannot be accomplished with only governmental resources and require a comprehensive approach that integrates various incentives, programs, and initiatives to meet the economic, physical, and social needs of the area;
(d) Successful reinvestment depends on a local government's ability to coordinate public resources in a cohesive, comprehensive strategy that is designed to leverage long-term private investment in an area;
(e) Reinvestment can strengthen the overall tax base through increased tax revenue from expanded and new business activities and physical property improvement;
(f) Local governments, in cooperation with area residents, can provide leadership as well as planning and coordination of resources and necessary supportive services to address reinvestment in the area; and
(g) It is in the public interest to adopt a targeted approach to revitalization and enlist the resources of all levels of government, the private sector, community-based organizations, and community residents to revitalize an area.
(2) The legislature declares that the purposes of the community empowerment zone act are to:
(a) Encourage reinvestment through strong partnerships and cooperation between all levels of government, community-based organizations, area residents, and the private sector;
(b) Involve the private sector and stimulate private reinvestment through the judicious use of public resources;
(c) Target governmental resources to those areas of greatest need; and
(d) Include all levels of government, community individuals, organizations, and the private sector in the policy-making process.
[ 2000 c 212 s 1.]

catchline: Findings—Declaration.


title: RCW 43.31C.010

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Area" means a geographic area within a local government that is described by a close perimeter boundary.
(2) "Community empowerment zone" means an area meeting the requirements of RCW 43.31C.020 and officially designated by the director.
(3) "Department" means the department of commerce.
(4) "Director" means the director of the department of commerce.
(5) "Local government" means a city, code city, town, or county.
[ 2009 c 565 s 31; 2000 c 212 s 2.]


title: RCW 43.31C.020

text:
(1) The department, in cooperation with the department of revenue, the employment security department, and the office of financial management, may approve applications submitted by local governments for an area's designation as a community empowerment zone under this chapter. The application for designation shall be in the form and manner and contain such information as the department may prescribe, provided that the application shall:
(a) Contain information sufficient for the director to determine if the criteria established in RCW 43.31C.030 have been met;
(b) Be submitted on behalf of the local government by its chief elected official, or, if none, by the governing body of the local government;
(c) Contain a five-year community empowerment plan that meets the requirements of RCW 43.31C.040; and
(d) Certify that area residents were given the opportunity to participate in the development of the five-year community empowerment strategy required under RCW 43.31C.040.
(2) No local government shall submit more than two areas to the department for possible designation as a community empowerment zone under this chapter.
(3)(a) The director may designate up to six community empowerment zones, statewide, from among the applications submitted for designation as a community empowerment zone.
(b) The director shall make determinations of designated community empowerment zones on the basis of the following factors:
(i) The strength and quality of the local government commitments to meet the needs identified in the five-year community empowerment plan required under RCW 43.31C.040.
(ii) The level of private sector commitment of additional resources and contribution to the community empowerment zone.
(iii) The potential for revitalization of the area as a result of designation as a community empowerment zone.
(iv) Other factors the director deems necessary.
(c) The determination of the director as to the areas designated as community empowerment zones shall be final.
(4) Except as provided in RCW 43.31C.050, an area that was designated a community empowerment zone before January 1, 1996, under this section, automatically and without additional action by the local government continues its designation under this chapter.
(5) The department may not designate additional community empowerment zones after January 1, 2004, but may amend or rescind designation of community empowerment zones in accordance with RCW 43.31C.050.
[ 2000 c 212 s 3; 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 702; 1993 sp.s. c 25 s 401. Formerly RCW 43.63A.700.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Severability—Effective dates—Part headings, captions not law—1993 sp.s. c 25: See notes following RCW 82.04.230.

catchline: Community empowerment zone—Application.


title: RCW 43.31C.030

text:
(1) The director may not designate an area as a community empowerment zone unless that area meets the following requirements:
(a) The area must be designated by the legislative authority of the local government as an area to receive federal, state, and local assistance designed to increase economic, physical, or social activity in the area;
(b) The area must have at least fifty-one percent of the households in the area with incomes at or below eighty percent of the county's median income, adjusted for household size;
(c) The average unemployment rate for the area, for the most recent twelve-month period for which data is available must be at least one hundred twenty percent of the average unemployment rate of the county; and
(d) A five-year community empowerment plan for the area that meets the requirements of RCW 43.31C.040 must be adopted.
(2) The director may establish, by rule, such other requirements as the director may reasonably determine necessary and appropriate to assure that the purposes of this chapter are satisfied.
(3) In determining if an area meets the requirements of this section, the director may consider data provided by the United States bureau of the census from the most recent census or any other reliable data that the director determines to be acceptable for the purposes for which the data is used.
[ 2000 c 212 s 4; 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 703; 1993 sp.s. c 25 s 402. Formerly RCW 43.63A.710.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Severability—Effective dates—Part headings, captions not law—1993 sp.s. c 25: See notes following RCW 82.04.230.


title: RCW 43.31C.040

text:
(1) The five-year community empowerment plan required under RCW 43.31C.020 shall contain information that describes the community development needs of the proposed community empowerment zone and present a strategy for meeting those needs. The plan shall address the following categories:
(a) Housing needs for all economic segments of the proposed community empowerment zone;
(b) Public infrastructure needs, such as transportation, water, sanitation, energy, and drainage and flood control;
(c) Other public facilities needs, such as neighborhood facilities or facilities for the provision of health, education, recreation, public safety, and other services;
(d) Community economic development needs, such as commercial and industrial revitalization, job creation and retention considering the unemployment and underemployment of area residents, accessibility to financial resources by area residents and businesses, investment within the area, and other related components of community economic development; and
(e) Social service needs of residents in the proposed community empowerment zone.
(2) The local government must provide a description of its strategy for meeting the needs identified in subsection (1) of this section. As part of the community empowerment zone strategy, the local government must identify the needs for which specific plans are currently in place and the source of funds expected to be used. For the balance of the area's needs, the local government must identify the source of funds expected to become available during the next two-year period and actions the local government will take to acquire those funds.
(3) The local government must submit an annual progress report to the department that details the extent to which the local government is working to meet the needs identified in the five-year community empowerment plan. If applicable, the progress report must also contain a discussion on the impediments to meeting the needs outlined in the five-year community empowerment plan. The department must determine the date the annual progress reports are due from each local government.
[ 2000 c 212 s 5.]

catchline: Community empowerment plan—Requirements—Annual progress report.


title: RCW 43.31C.050

text:
(1) The terms or conditions of a community empowerment zone approved under this chapter may be amended to:
(a) Alter the boundaries of the community empowerment zone; or
(b) Terminate the designation of a community empowerment zone.
(2)(a) A request for an amendment under subsection (1)(a) of this section may not be in effect until the department issues an amended designation for the community empowerment zone that approves the requested amendment. The local government must promptly file with the department a request for approval that contains information the department deems necessary to evaluate the proposed changes and its impact on the area's designation as a community empowerment zone under RCW 43.31C.030. The local government must hold at least two public hearings on the proposed changes and include the information in its request for an amendment to its community empowerment zone.
(b) The department shall approve or disapprove a proposed amendment to a community empowerment zone within sixty days of its receipt of a request under subsection (1)(a) of this section. The department may not approve changes to a community empowerment zone that are not in conformity with this chapter.
(3)(a) The termination of an area's designation as a community empowerment zone under subsection (1)(b) of this section is not effective until the department issues a finding stating the reasons for the termination, which may include lack of commitment of resources to activities in the community empowerment zone by the public, private, and community-based sectors. The local government may file an appeal to the department's findings within sixty days of the notice to terminate the area's designation. The department must notify the local government of the results within thirty days of the filing of the appeal.
(b) A termination of an area's designation as a community empowerment zone has no effect on benefits previously extended to individual businesses. The local government may not commit benefits to a business after the effective date of the termination of an area's designation as a community empowerment zone.
(4) The department may request applications from local governments for designation as community empowerment zones under this chapter as a result of a termination of an area's designation as a community empowerment zone under this section.
[ 2000 c 212 s 6.]


title: RCW 43.31C.060

text:
The department must administer this chapter and has the following powers and duties:
(1) To monitor the implementation of chapter 212, Laws of 2000 and submit reports evaluating the effectiveness of the program and any suggestions for legislative changes to the governor and legislature by December 1, 2000;
(2) To develop evaluation and performance measures for local governments to measure the effectiveness of the program at the local level on meeting the objectives of this chapter;
(3) To provide information and appropriate assistance to persons desiring to locate and operate a business in a community empowerment zone;
(4) To work with appropriate state agencies to coordinate the delivery of programs, including but not limited to housing, community and economic development, small business assistance, social service, and employment and training programs which are carried on in a community empowerment zone; and
(5) To develop rules necessary for the administration of this chapter.
[ 2000 c 212 s 7.]

catchline: Administration of chapter—Powers and duties of department.


title: RCW 43.31C.070

text:
The administration of a community empowerment zone is under the jurisdiction of the local government. Each local government must, by ordinance, designate a community empowerment zone administrator for the area designated as a community empowerment zone that is within its jurisdiction. A community empowerment zone administrator must be an officer or employee of the local government. The community empowerment zone administrator is the liaison between the local government, the department, the business community, and labor and community-based organizations within the community empowerment zone.
[ 2000 c 212 s 8.]

catchline: Administration of community empowerment zone—Jurisdiction of local government—Community empowerment zone administrator.


title: RCW 43.31C.900

text:
This chapter may be known and cited as the Washington community empowerment zone act.
[ 2000 c 212 s 9.]

catchline: Short title.


title: RCW 43.31C.901

text:
If any part of this act is found to be in conflict with federal requirements that are a prescribed condition to the allocation of federal funds to the state, the conflicting part of this act is inoperative solely to the extent of the conflict and with respect to the agencies directly affected, and this finding does not affect the operation of the remainder of this act in its application to the agencies concerned. Rules adopted under this act must meet federal requirements that are a necessary condition to the receipt of federal funds by the state.
[ 2000 c 212 s 12.]

catchline: Conflict with federal requirements—2000 c 212.


title: RCW 43.32.010

text:
There is created a state design standards committee of seven members, six of which shall be appointed by the executive committee of the Washington state association of counties to hold office at its pleasure and the seventh to be the state aid engineer for the department of transportation. The members to be appointed by the executive committee of the Washington state association of counties shall be restricted to the membership of such association or to those holding the office and/or performing the functions of county engineer in any of the several counties of the state.
[ 1982 c 145 s 4; 1971 ex.s. c 85 s 6; 1965 c 8 s 43.32.010. Prior: 1949 c 165 s 2; RRS s 6450-8.]
Notes:
Design standards committee for arterial streets: Chapter 35.78 RCW.

catchline: Composition of committee.


title: RCW 43.32.020

text:
(1) On or before January 1, 1950, and from time to time thereafter, the design standards committee shall adopt uniform design standards for the county primary road systems.
(2) By July 1, 2012, and from time to time thereafter, the design standards committee shall adopt standards for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
[ 2012 c 67 s 7; 1965 c 8 s 43.32.020. Prior: 1949 c 165 s 3; RRS s 6450-8j.]
Notes:
Intent—2012 c 67: See note following RCW 35.75.060.
Design standards for county roads and bridges: Chapter 36.86 RCW.

catchline: Duties of committee.


title: RCW 43.320.005

text:
The legislature finds that, given the overlap of powers and products in the companies regulated, the consolidation of the agencies regulating financial institutions and securities into one department will better serve the public interest through more effective use of staff expertise. Therefore, for the convenience of administration and the centralization of control and the more effective use of state resources and expertise, the state desires to combine the regulation of financial institutions and securities into one department.
[ 1993 c 472 s 1.]


title: RCW 43.320.007

text:
(1) The legislature finds that the financial services industry is experiencing a period of rapid change with the development and delivery of new products and services and advances in technology.
(2) The legislature further finds it in the public interest to strengthen the regulation, supervision, and examination of business entities furnishing financial services to the people of this state and that this can be accomplished by streamlining and focusing regulation to reduce costs, increase effectiveness, and foster efficiency by eliminating requirements that are not necessary for the protection of the public.
(3) The provisions of chapter 256, Laws of 1994 should not be construed to limit the ability of the director of financial institutions to implement prudent regulation, prevent unsafe, unsound, and fraudulent practices, and undertake necessary enforcement actions to protect the public and promote the public interest.
[ 1994 c 256 s 1.]

catchline: Regulatory reform—Findings—Construction—1994 c 256.


title: RCW 43.320.010

text:
A state department of financial institutions, headed by the director of financial institutions, is created. The department shall be organized and operated in a manner that to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law protects the public interest, protects the safety and soundness of depository institutions and entities under the jurisdiction of the department, ensures access to the regulatory process for all concerned parties, and protects the interests of investors. The department of financial institutions shall be structured to reflect the unique differences in the types of institutions and areas it regulates.
[ 1993 c 472 s 2.]

catchline: Department created.


title: RCW 43.320.011

text:
(1) All powers, duties, and functions of the *department of general administration under Titles **30, 31, 32, 33, and 43 RCW and any other title pertaining to duties relating to banks, savings banks, foreign bank branches, savings and loan associations, credit unions, consumer loan companies, check cashers and sellers, trust companies and departments, and other similar institutions are transferred to the department of financial institutions. All references to the *director of general administration, supervisor of banking, or the supervisor of savings and loan associations in the Revised Code of Washington are construed to mean the director of the department of financial institutions when referring to the functions transferred in this section. All references to the *department of general administration in the Revised Code of Washington are construed to mean the department of financial institutions when referring to the functions transferred in this subsection.
(2) All powers, duties, and functions of the department of licensing under chapters 18.44, 19.100, 19.110, 21.20, 21.30, and 48.18A RCW and any other statute pertaining to the regulation under the chapters listed in this subsection of escrow agents, securities, franchises, business opportunities, commodities, and any other speculative investments are transferred to the department of financial institutions. All references to the director or department of licensing in the Revised Code of Washington are construed to mean the director or department of financial institutions when referring to the functions transferred in this subsection.
[ 1995 c 238 s 6; 1993 c 472 s 6.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: *(1) The "department of general administration" and the "director of general administration" were renamed the "department of enterprise services" and the "director of enterprise services" by 2011 1st sp.s. c 43.
**(2) Title 30 RCW was recodified and/or repealed pursuant to 2014 c 37, effective January 5, 2015.
Effective date—1995 c 238: See note following RCW 18.44.011.

catchline: Department of general administration and department of licensing powers and duties transferred.


title: RCW 43.320.017

text:
Nothing contained in RCW 43.320.011 may be construed to alter any existing collective bargaining unit or the provisions of any existing collective bargaining agreement until the expiration date of the current agreement or until the bargaining unit has been modified by action of the Washington personnel resources board as provided by law.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 25 s 3; 1993 c 472 s 13.]

catchline: Collective bargaining agreements.


title: RCW 43.320.020

text:
The director of financial institutions shall be appointed by the governor and shall exercise all powers and perform all of the duties and functions transferred under RCW 43.320.011, and such other powers and duties as may be authorized by law. The director may deputize, appoint, and employ examiners and other such assistants and personnel as may be necessary to carry on the work of the department. The director of financial institutions shall receive a salary in an amount fixed by the governor.
[ 1993 c 472 s 3.]

catchline: Director—Salary—Powers and duties—Examiners, assistants, personnel.


title: RCW 43.320.030

text:
A person is not eligible for appointment as director of financial institutions unless he or she is, and for the last two years before his or her appointment has been, a citizen of the United States. A person is not eligible for appointment as director of financial institutions if he or she has an interest at the time of appointment, as a director, trustee, officer, or stockholder in any bank, savings bank, savings and loan association, credit union, consumer loan company, trust company, securities broker-dealer or investment advisor, or other institution regulated by the department.
[ 1993 c 472 s 4.]


title: RCW 43.320.040

text:
The director of financial institutions may adopt any rules, under chapter 34.05 RCW, necessary to implement the powers and duties of the director under this chapter.
[ 1993 c 472 s 5.]

catchline: Director's authority to adopt rules.


title: RCW 43.320.045

text:
The director of financial institutions or the director's designee shall:
(1) Disseminate information to the public concerning the laws regulating financial institutions of this state; and
(2) Provide assistance to members of the public in obtaining information about financial products.
[ 2008 c 3 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2008 c 3: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [February 11, 2008]." [ 2008 c 3 s 5.]

catchline: Director's duties—Dissemination of information.


title: RCW 43.320.050

text:
The director of financial institutions may appoint assistant directors for each of the divisions of the department and delegate to them the power to perform any act or duty conferred upon the director. The director is responsible for the official acts of these assistant directors.
The department of financial institutions shall consist of at least the following four divisions: The division of FDIC insured institutions, with regulatory authority over all state-chartered FDIC insured institutions; the division of credit unions, with regulatory authority over all state-chartered credit unions; the division of consumer affairs, with regulatory authority over state-licensed nondepository lending institutions and other regulated entities; and the division of securities, with regulatory authority over securities, franchises, business opportunities, and commodities. The director of financial institutions is granted broad administrative authority to add additional responsibilities to these divisions as necessary and consistent with applicable law.
For purposes of this section, "FDIC" means the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
[ 1993 c 472 s 8.]


title: RCW 43.320.060

text:
The director of financial institutions shall appoint, deputize, and employ examiners and such other assistants and personnel as may be necessary to carry on the work of the department of financial institutions.
In the event of the director's absence the director shall have the power to deputize one of the assistants of the director to exercise all the powers and perform all the duties prescribed by law with respect to banks, savings banks, foreign bank branches, savings and loan associations, credit unions, consumer loan companies, check cashers and sellers, trust companies and departments, securities, franchises, business opportunities, commodities, escrow agents, and other similar institutions or areas that are performed by the director so long as the director is absent: PROVIDED, That such deputized assistant shall not have the power to approve or disapprove new charters, licenses, branches, and satellite facilities, unless such action has received the prior written approval of the director. Any person so deputized shall possess the same qualifications as those set out in this section for the director.
[ 1995 c 238 s 8; 1993 c 472 s 20; 1977 ex.s. c 185 s 1; 1965 c 8 s 43.19.020. Prior: 1955 c 285 s 5; prior: (i) 1919 c 209 s 2; 1917 c 80 s 2; RRS s 3209. (ii) 1945 c 123 s 1; 1935 c 176 s 12; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 10786-11. Formerly RCW 43.19.020.]
Notes:
Effective date—1995 c 238: See note following RCW 18.44.011.

catchline: Deputization of assistant to exercise powers and duties of director.


title: RCW 43.320.070

text:
Before entering office each examiner shall take and subscribe an oath faithfully to discharge the duties of the office.
Oaths shall be filed with the secretary of state.
Neither the director of financial institutions, any deputized assistant of the director, nor any examiner or employee shall be personally liable for any act done in good faith in the performance of his or her duties.
[ 1993 c 472 s 21; 1977 ex.s. c 270 s 8; 1975 c 40 s 7; 1965 c 8 s 43.19.030. Prior: 1943 c 217 s 1; 1919 c 209 s 3; 1917 c 80 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 3210. Formerly RCW 43.19.030.]
Notes:
Powers and duties of director of enterprise services as to official bonds: RCW 43.19.784.

catchline: Oath of examiners—Liability for acts performed in good faith.


title: RCW 43.320.080

text:
The director of financial institutions shall maintain an office at the state capitol, but may with the consent of the governor also maintain branch offices at other convenient business centers in this state. The director shall keep books of record of all moneys received or disbursed by the director into or from the financial services regulation fund, and any other accounts maintained by the department of financial institutions.
[ 2001 c 177 s 1; 1993 c 472 s 22; 1965 c 8 s 43.19.050. Prior: 1917 c 80 s 4; RRS s 3211. Formerly RCW 43.19.050.]
Notes:
Effective date—2001 c 177: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect July 1, 2001." [ 2001 c 177 s 16.]

catchline: Director to maintain office in Olympia—Record of receipts and disbursements—Deposit of funds.


title: RCW 43.320.090

text:
(1) It shall be unlawful for the director of financial institutions, any deputized assistant of the director, or any employee of the department of financial institutions to borrow money from any bank, consumer loan company, credit union, foreign bank branch, savings bank, savings and loan association, or trust company or department, securities broker-dealer or investment advisor, or similar lending institution under the department's direct jurisdiction unless the extension of credit:
(a) Is made on substantially the same terms (including interest rates and collateral) as, and following credit underwriting procedures that are not less stringent than, those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions by the financial institution with other persons that are not employed by either the department or the institution; and
(b) Does not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features.
(2) Every person who knowingly violates this section shall forfeit his or her office or employment and be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
[ 2019 c 147 s 4; 1993 c 472 s 23; 1965 c 8 s 43.19.080. Prior: 1917 c 80 s 11; RRS s 3218. Formerly RCW 43.19.080.]

catchline: Borrowing money by director, deputy, or employee—Penalty.


title: RCW 43.320.100

text:
The director of financial institutions shall file in his or her office all reports required to be made to the director, prepare and furnish to banks, savings banks, foreign bank branches, savings and loan associations, credit unions, consumer loan companies, check cashers and sellers, and trust companies and departments blank forms for such reports as are required of them, and, beginning in the 2009-2011 fiscal biennium and each biennium thereafter, make a report to the governor showing:
(1) A summary of the conditions of the banks, savings banks, foreign bank branches, savings and loan associations, credit unions, consumer loan companies, check cashers and sellers, and trust companies and departments at the date of their last report; and
(2) A list of those organized or closed during the year.
The director may publish such other statements, reports, and pamphlets as he or she deems advisable.
[ 2009 c 518 s 11; 1993 c 472 s 24; 1977 c 75 s 43; 1965 c 8 s 43.19.090. Prior: 1917 c 80 s 13; RRS s 3220. Formerly RCW 43.19.090.]

catchline: Annual report—Contents.


title: RCW 43.320.110

text:
(1) There is created in the custody of the state treasurer a local fund known as the "financial services regulation fund" which shall consist of all moneys received by the divisions of the department of financial institutions, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) The division of securities shall deposit thirteen percent of all moneys received, except as provided in RCW 43.320.115 and subsection (3) of this section, and which shall be used for the purchase of supplies and necessary equipment; the payment of salaries, wages, and utilities; the establishment of reserves; and other incidental costs required for the proper regulation of individuals and entities subject to regulation by the department.
(3) The division of securities shall deposit one hundred percent of all moneys received that are attributable to increases in fees implemented by rule pursuant to RCW 21.20.340(15).
(4) Disbursements from the fund shall be on authorization of the director of financial institutions or the director's designee. In order to maintain an effective expenditure and revenue control, the fund shall be subject in all respects to chapter 43.88 RCW, but no appropriation is required to permit expenditures and payment of obligations from the fund.
(5) During the 2017-2019 fiscal biennium, the legislature may transfer from the financial services regulation fund to the state general fund such amounts as reflect the excess fund balance of the fund. During the 2017-2019 and 2021-2023 fiscal biennia, moneys from the financial services regulation fund may be appropriated for the family prosperity account program at the department of commerce and for the operations of the department of revenue.
(6)(a) Beginning in the 2020-2021 fiscal year, the state treasurer shall annually transfer from the fund to the student loan advocate account created in RCW 28B.77.008, the greater of one hundred seventy-five thousand dollars or twenty percent of the annual assessment derived from student education loan servicing.
(b) The department must provide information to the state treasurer regarding the amount of the annual assessment derived from student education loan servicing.
(7) The director's obligations or duties under chapter 62, Laws of 2018 are subject to section 21, chapter 62, Laws of 2018.
(8) During the 2019-2021, 2023-2025, and 2025-2027 fiscal biennia, moneys in the financial services regulation fund may be appropriated for the operations of the department of revenue.
(9) During the 2021-2023, 2023-2025, and 2025-2027 fiscal biennia, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to make transfers of moneys in the financial services regulation fund to the general fund. It is the intent of the legislature to continue this policy in subsequent biennia.
[ 2025 c 424 s 958; 2023 c 475 s 933; 2021 c 334 s 982; 2019 c 415 s 973. Prior: 2018 c 185 s 2; 2018 c 62 s 4; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 976; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 4 s 960; 2011 2nd sp.s. c 9 s 909; 2010 1st sp.s. c 37 s 934; 2005 c 518 s 932; prior: 2003 1st sp.s. c 25 s 921; 2003 c 288 s 1; 2002 c 371 s 912; 2001 2nd sp.s. c 7 s 911; 2001 c 177 s 2; 1995 c 238 s 9; 1993 c 472 s 25; 1981 c 241 s 1. Formerly RCW 43.19.095.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 424: See note following RCW 9.46.100.
Effective date—2023 c 475: See note following RCW 16.76.030.
Conflict with federal requirements—Effective date—2021 c 334: See notes following RCW 43.79.555.
Effective date—2019 c 415: See note following RCW 28B.20.476.
Application—Short title—2018 c 62: See RCW 31.04.905 and 31.04.906.
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1: See note following RCW 43.41.455.
Effective dates—2015 3rd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 28B.15.069.
Effective dates—2011 2nd sp.s. c 9: See note following RCW 28B.50.837.
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 37: See note following RCW 13.06.050.
Effective date—2005 c 518: See note following RCW 28A.600.110.
Severability—Effective date—2003 1st sp.s. c 25: See notes following RCW 19.28.351.
Severability—Effective date—2002 c 371: See notes following RCW 9.46.100.
Severability—2001 2nd sp.s. c 7: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2001 2nd sp.s. c 7 s 923.]
Effective date—2001 2nd sp.s. c 7: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [June 26, 2001], except for section 911 of this act which takes effect July 1, 2001." [ 2001 2nd sp.s. c 7 s 924.]
Effective date—2001 c 177: See note following RCW 43.320.080.
Effective date—1995 c 238: See note following RCW 18.44.011.
Effective date—1981 c 241: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1981." [ 1981 c 241 s 4.]

catchline: Financial services regulation fund.


title: RCW 43.320.115

text:
(1) The securities prosecution fund is created in the custody of the state treasurer and shall consist of all fines received by the division of securities under RCW 21.20.400(2), 21.20.110, and 21.20.395 and all undistributed funds from orders of disgorgement and restitution under RCW 21.20.110(8) and 21.20.390(6). No appropriation is required to permit expenditures from this fund, but the account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW.
(2) Expenditures from this fund may be used solely for administering the fund, for payment of costs, expenses, and charges incurred in the preparation, initiation, and prosecution of criminal charges for violations of chapters 21.20, 21.30, 19.100, and 19.110 RCW, and for making an award to a whistleblower under RCW 21.40.020. Only the director or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the fund.
(3) Except for an award to a whistleblower under RCW 21.40.020, applications for fund expenditures must be submitted by the attorney general or the proper prosecuting attorney to the director. The application must clearly identify the alleged criminal violations identified in subsection (2) of this section and indicate the purpose for which the funds will be used. The application must also certify that any funds received will be expended only for the purpose requested. Funding requests must be approved by the director prior to any expenditure being incurred by the requesting attorney general or prosecuting attorney. At the conclusion of the prosecution, the attorney general or prosecuting attorney shall provide the director with an accounting of fund expenditures, a summary of the case, and certify his or her compliance with any rules adopted by the director relating to the administration of the fund.
(4) If the balance of the securities prosecution fund reaches $1,000,000, all fines received by the division of securities under RCW 21.20.400(2), 21.20.110, and 21.20.395 and all undistributed funds from orders of disgorgement and restitution under RCW 21.20.110(8) and 21.20.390(6) shall be deposited in the financial services regulation fund until such time as the balance in the fund falls below $1,000,000, at which time the fines received by the division of securities under RCW 21.20.400(2), 21.20.110, and 21.20.395 and all undistributed funds from orders of disgorgement and restitution under RCW 21.20.110(8) and 21.20.390(6) shall be deposited to the securities prosecution fund until balance in the fund once again reaches $1,000,000.
[ 2023 c 149 s 13; 2003 c 288 s 2.]

catchline: Securities prosecution fund.


title: RCW 43.320.140

text:
(1) The mortgage lending fraud prosecution account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the surcharge imposed in RCW 36.22.181, except those retained by the county auditor for administration, must be deposited into the account. Except as otherwise provided in this section, expenditures from the account may be used only for criminal prosecution of fraudulent activities related to mortgage lending fraud crimes. Only the director of the department of financial institutions or the director's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
(2) This section expires June 30, 2027.
[ 2021 c 31 s 2; 2016 c 7 s 1; 2011 c 129 s 1; 2006 c 21 s 2; 2003 c 289 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2021 c 31: See note following RCW 36.22.181.
Effective date—2011 c 129: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect June 29, 2011." [ 2011 c 129 s 3.]

catchline: Mortgage lending fraud prosecution account—Created. (Expires June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 43.320.150

text:
The director of financial institutions or the director's designee may establish, administer, and implement financial literacy and education programs, including but not limited to:
(1) Education and outreach programs that assist Washington citizens of all ages in understanding saving, investing, and budgeting, and other skills necessary to obtain individual financial independence, fiscal responsibility, and financial management skills.
(2) Counseling, marketing, and outreach programs regarding residential mortgage transactions, nontraditional or subprime mortgages, predatory lending practices, or other financial products or practices in the marketplace relating to homeownership.
The department may deliver the programs in subsections (1) and (2) of this section using grants, contracts, or interagency agreements with state and local governments and other nongovernmental organizations as necessary. The department may coordinate these programs with ongoing efforts by other public and private sector entities to maximize the programs' effectiveness.
[ 2008 c 3 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2008 c 3: See note following RCW 43.320.045.

catchline: Financial literacy and education programs.


title: RCW 43.320.1501

text:
The director or his or her designee shall convene an interagency work group to identify current state-funded efforts to support financial literacy, assess whether there are opportunities to create a centralized location of information regarding these existing state efforts, and to identify whether there are opportunities for expanding partnerships with other community entities also providing financial literacy services. A report of the findings and recommendations of this interagency work group shall be due to the governor and the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2008.
[ 2008 c 3 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2008 c 3: See note following RCW 43.320.045.

catchline: Financial literacy—Report to governor and legislature.


title: RCW 43.320.180

text:
The department of financial institutions, annually, or upon request of the department of commerce, must review individual retirement account products proposed for inclusion in the Washington small business retirement marketplace to confirm that the products comply with the requirements of RCW 43.330.735, except for those requirements that pertain to federal laws and regulations.
[ 2015 c 296 s 10.]
Notes:
Conflict with federal requirements—2015 c 296: See RCW 43.330.912.

catchline: Review of retirement account products proposed for inclusion in the Washington small business retirement marketplace.


title: RCW 43.320.190

text:
(1) Information provided to the department of financial institutions by an agency of another state or the federal government, or regulatory association comprised of members of financial regulatory agencies, to the extent such information is confidential or exempt from disclosure under specific federal law or the specific laws of another state, shall be exempt from disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW.
(2) The information in subsection (1) of this section is not exempt when included in records prepared by the department that represent agency action, as defined in RCW 34.05.010.
(3) For the purpose of regulating financial institutions, the director of financial institutions or the director's designee may enter into agreements governing the sharing, receiving, and use of documents, materials, or other information consistent with this section and chapter 42.56 RCW.
[ 2022 c 8 s 1.]

catchline: Confidential information—Public records act exemption.


title: RCW 43.320.500

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this section and RCW 43.320.510 through 43.320.560 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Covered financial institution" means a bank as defined in section 3 of the federal deposit insurance act, 12 U.S.C. Sec. 1813(a), and includes those financial institutions supervised and regulated by the director under Titles 30A, 32, and 33 RCW, including any subsidiary or affiliate of any applicable covered financial institution under the bank service company act, 12 U.S.C. Sec. 1861(b)(2).
(2) "Covered service" means any service subject to examination under the bank service company act, 12 U.S.C. Sec. 1867 (c) as of June 9, 2022, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the department by rule consistent with the purposes of chapter 49, Laws of 2022.
(3) "Department" means the state department of financial institutions.
(4) "Director" means the director of financial institutions, or the director's duly authorized representative.
(5) "Federal agency" includes the federal deposit insurance corporation, federal reserve, national credit union administration, consumer financial protection bureau, and office of the comptroller of the currency, or any successor federal agencies.
(6) "Service provider" means any person, company, corporation, or other legal entity that provides a covered service to a covered financial institution; the term service provider also includes "service companies" as defined under the bank service company act, 12 U.S.C. Sec. 1861(b)(2).
[ 2022 c 49 s 1.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Definitions.


title: RCW 43.320.510

text:
(1) A service provider that provides a covered service, by contract or otherwise, to a covered financial institution, is subject to examination by the director to the same extent as if the covered service was performed by the covered financial institution itself.
(2) The director may, in the director's discretion, examine any service provider under RCW 43.320.500 through 43.320.560; provided that prior to any state-only examination, the director must find that:
(a) The information sought cannot be otherwise accessed or verified by the records of the covered financial institution without direct examination of the records of the service provider;
(b) The service provider manages an application, process, or system for the benefit of the covered financial institution, the integrity of which cannot be evaluated without direct examination; or
(c) An act or omission of the service provider sought to be examined has resulted in a significant heightened risk, is committing an unsafe and unsound practice, operating in an unsafe or unsound manner, or is otherwise violating a provision of Title 30A, 32, or 33 RCW, or other applicable law.
[ 2022 c 49 s 2.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Examination.


title: RCW 43.320.520

text:
The director may, in the director's discretion, accept service provider reports of examination, which are made by any other state or federal agency, in lieu of any examination authorized under the laws of this state.
[ 2022 c 49 s 3.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Reports of examination from other agencies.


title: RCW 43.320.530

text:
A service provider report of examination written or obtained by the director is confidential and subject to the applicable state and federal bank confidentiality laws including, but not limited to, RCW 30A.04.075, 31.12.565, 32.04.220, and 33.04.110, provided that:
(1) For any joint service provider report of examination performed by the director with any other state or federal agency, a copy may be furnished to:
(a) The examined service provider or the covered financial institutions serviced by the service provider in accordance with the bank service company act, 12 U.S.C. chapter 18, and the attendant rules, regulations, policies, and guidance applicable to service provider examinations;
(b) Outside parties with written consent of all state and federal agencies that participated in the examination; or
(c) Outside parties if compelled in response to a valid legal process; however, the department must provide a written notice of disclosure and reasonable opportunity to object to all state and federal agencies that participated in the examination.
(2) For any state-only service provider report of examination performed solely by the director, a copy may be furnished to:
(a) The examined service provider;
(b) Any Washington state-chartered or Washington state-licensed financial institution serviced by the service provider; or
(c) Outside parties if compelled in response to a valid legal process with reasonable opportunity for the department to object.
[ 2022 c 49 s 4.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Confidentiality of reports of examination.


title: RCW 43.320.540

text:
The director may enter into examination and information sharing agreements with any state or federal agency that has joint or concurrent jurisdiction over a service provider.
[ 2022 c 49 s 5.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Examination and information sharing agreements.


title: RCW 43.320.550

text:
(1) The director may take enforcement actions against a service provider for planning, attempting, or currently violating any state or federal law, or engaging in any unsafe or unsound practice, to the same extent, and as if, the covered service was performed by the covered financial institution itself, pursuant to Titles 30A, 32, and 33 RCW.
(2) The director may enter into joint examinations or joint enforcement actions with other state or federal agencies having joint or concurrent jurisdiction over a service provider.
[ 2022 c 49 s 6.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Enforcement.


title: RCW 43.320.560

text:
The director has the power, and broad administrative discretion, to administer and interpret RCW 43.320.500 through 43.320.550. The director may adopt all rules necessary to administer RCW 43.320.500 through 43.320.550.
[ 2022 c 49 s 7.]

catchline: Financial institution service providers—Power of director—Rule making.


title: RCW 43.320.900

text:
This act takes effect October 1, 1993.
[ 1993 c 472 s 31.]

catchline: Effective date—1993 c 472.


title: RCW 43.325.005

text:
(1) The legislature finds that excessive dependence on fossil fuels jeopardizes Washington's economic security, environmental integrity, and public health. Accelerated development and use of clean fuels and clean vehicle technologies will reduce the drain on Washington's economy from importing fossil fuels. As fossil fuel prices rise, clean fuels and vehicles can save consumers money while promoting the development of a major, sustainable industry that provides good jobs and a new source of rural prosperity. In addition, clean fuels and vehicles protect public health by reducing toxic air and climate change emissions.
(2) The legislature also finds that climate change is expected to have significant impacts in the Pacific Northwest region in the near and long-term future. These impacts include: Increased temperatures, declining snowpack, more frequent heavy rainfall and flooding, receding glaciers, rising sea levels, increased risks to public health due to insect and rodent-borne diseases, declining salmon populations, and increased drought and risk of forest fires. The legislature recognizes the need at this time to continue to gather and analyze information related to climate protection. This analysis will allow prudent steps to be taken to avoid, mitigate, or respond to climate impacts and protect our communities.
(3) Finally, the legislature finds that to reduce fossil fuel dependence, build our clean energy economy, and reduce climate impacts, the state should develop policies and incentives that help businesses, consumers, and farmers gain greater access to affordable clean fuels and vehicles and to produce clean fuels in the state. These policies and incentives should include: Incentives for replacement of the most polluting diesel engines, especially in school buses; transitional incentives for development of the most promising in-state clean fuels and fuel feedstocks, including biodiesel crops, ethanol from plant waste, and liquid natural gas from landfill or wastewater treatment gases; reduced fossil fuel consumption by state fleets; development of promising new technologies for displacing petroleum with electricity, such as "plug-in hybrids"; and impact analysis and emission accounting procedures that prepare Washington to respond and prosper as climate change impacts occur, and as policies and markets to reduce climate pollution are developed.
[ 2007 c 348 s 1.]

catchline: Findings—2007 c 348.