(1) The department, in coordination with the department of commerce and other agencies as appropriate, must develop recommendations for potential improvements to the permitting processes for industrial projects and facilities in Washington that would contribute to achieving greenhouse gas emissions limits established under RCW 70A.45.020 while maintaining standards for the protection of the environment and the preservation of tribal consultation and treaty rights. The department must provide increased clarity on areas in the state that may be suitable for siting projects that have a lower potential for negative environmental impacts, especially to highly impacted communities as defined in RCW 19.405.020 and identify strategies for minimizing and mitigating negative environmental impacts where possible. The department must provide clear guidance and direction intended to improve project proposals, recommend policy and administrative improvements necessary to improve the permitting process, and recommend any additional studies needed. The department shall convene businesses, local governments, community organizations, and environmental and labor stakeholders, and consult with tribes.
(2) The department and the department of commerce shall produce and submit to the governor and the legislature an interim progress report with initial policy proposal recommendations for the 2022 legislative session by December 1, 2021, and a final report including findings, recommendations, and further policy proposals by December 1, 2022.
(3) This section expires June 30, 2023.
[ 2021 c 317 § 28.]
NOTES:
Severability—2021 c 317: See note following RCW 70A.535.005.