Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2193

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Concerning the new environmental restoration accelerator for salmon recovery.

Impact

The implications of HB2193 extend to state laws governing environmental protection and wildlife management. The bill proposes to amend existing legislation to integrate new funding mechanisms for restoration projects. This change is expected to streamline processes for obtaining resources needed for effective salmon recovery initiatives. The state may see a boost in collaborations between various stakeholders, including government agencies, conservation groups, and local communities, all working together towards the common goal of restoring salmon habitats. Overall, the bill aims to foster a coordinated approach to environmental stewardship.

Summary

House Bill 2193 seeks to establish a new program focused on environmental restoration, particularly aimed at accelerating salmon recovery efforts. The bill emphasizes the importance of restoring ecosystems to support salmon populations, which are vital not only for biodiversity but also for the health of the state’s waterways. The proposed program is designed to enhance habitat management strategies, ensuring that local efforts align with broader conservation goals. By facilitating funding and resources for specific projects, HB2193 aims to create a statewide impact on salmon populations and their habitats.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2193 is predominantly positive among environmental advocates and conservationists who view the bill as a necessary step towards protecting salmon populations and enhancing their habitats. However, there are also concerns among local communities about the potential for increased regulatory oversight associated with the new restoration programs. While supporters celebrate the initiative as an essential move towards sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, some community members express apprehension regarding the imposition of state-level standards that may not reflect local needs or conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the implementation of the bill, particularly regarding how funds will be allocated and which specific projects will receive support. Questions may also be raised concerning the balance between state control and local authority in managing salmon recovery efforts. Critics might argue that without careful oversight, the bill could inadvertently disadvantage smaller organizations or localized efforts that are crucial for tailored, community-based approaches to restoration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5305

Concerning the new environmental accelerator for salmon recovery and ecological resiliency projects.

WA HB1686

Concerning salmon recovery reform.

WA HB2294

Concerning the salmon recovery account.

WA SB5475

Concerning maintenance for salmon recovery projects.

WA SB5155

Extending a program to streamline the environmental permitting process for salmon recovery projects.

WA HB1208

Extending a program to streamline the environmental permitting process for salmon recovery projects.

WA SB6143

Concerning local salmon habitat recovery planning in critical areas.

WA HB1742

Concerning environmentally sustainable urban design.

WA HB1892

Concerning the workforce housing accelerator program.

WA HB2235

Improving publicly available data on Washington state's water quality to improve salmon recovery and the prioritization of salmon recovery projects.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.