Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5828

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/18/24  
Refer
1/19/24  
Report DNP
2/1/24  
Engrossed
2/13/24  
Refer
2/15/24  
Report Pass
2/21/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Enrolled
3/8/24  
Chaptered
3/26/24  

Caption

Concerning water rights adjudication commissioners and referees.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning water rights. By clearly delineating the responsibilities of adjudication officials, SB5828 seeks to reduce confusion and facilitate more efficient dispute resolution processes. This change could lead to quicker adjudications, promoting stability in water allocation and usage. Additionally, the streamlined procedures may help alleviate some of the burdens currently faced by local courts dealing with water rights disputes.

Summary

SB5828 addresses the governance and framework surrounding water rights adjudication in the state. The bill proposes the establishment of more structured roles for adjudication commissioners and referees, aimed at streamlining the water rights process. Its intention is to enhance the clarity and efficiency of legal proceedings related to water rights, which are critical to various stakeholders including landowners and water users across the state. This structured approach is particularly important given the growing concerns about water scarcity and the need for equitable distribution amidst competing interests.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB5828 is largely positive, with support from various stakeholders who recognize the need for improved water rights adjudication processes. Proponents argue that the bill's provisions are essential for ensuring fair and efficient resolution of water rights disputes, especially in a state where water resources are increasingly at a premium. However, there are some concerns from minority factions who worry about the potential for bureaucratic overreach and the appropriateness of state control over localized water issues.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from fears that the bill may inadvertently centralize too much authority in the hands of state-appointed officials, thereby diminishing local control over water rights matters. Critics have voiced concerns that such changes could complicate existing local agreements and diminish the voice of local water users. The dialogue surrounding SB5828 highlights the tension between the need for efficient governance and the preservation of local interests and autonomy within the water rights adjudication framework.

Companion Bills

WA HB1993

Crossfiled Concerning water rights adjudication commissioners and referees.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1993

Concerning water rights adjudication commissioners and referees.

WA SB5212

Concerning filing of adjudication claims for precode uses of groundwater and surface water in the water resource inventory area 1 water rights adjudication.

WA HB2186

Concerning deferred adjudications for juveniles.

WA HB1792

Modifying timelines and other initial procedural actions in a water rights adjudication.

WA SB5627

Concerning salaries for county commissioners and councilmembers.

WA SB5622

Concerning the transfer of alternate water rights and water rights for municipal water supply purposes.

WA SB5262

Correcting obsolete or erroneous references in statutes administered by the insurance commissioner.

WA SB5288

Concerning vacancies on boards of county commissioners.

WA HB1505

Correcting obsolete or erroneous references in statutes administered by the insurance commissioner.

WA SB5635

Concerning victims' rights.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.