FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Coalition calls for stronger action on clean water bills
Environmental and labor organizations, cities, and counties call on state legislators to “hold firm” against oil industry pressure
A broad coalition of environmental groups, labor organizations, cities, and counties today called for stronger action by the legislature for clean water.
Olympia, WA - A broad coalition of environmental groups, labor organizations, cities, and counties today called for stronger action by the legislature for clean water. Often cited as our state’s biggest water pollution problem, millions of gallons of toxic stormwater wash directly into our lakes, rivers, and Puget Sound each year.
HB 3181 passed out of the House Finance Committee March 1 with an amendment that significantly lowers the funding dedicated to stormwater cleanup. The original included $70 million/year the first year, ramping up to over $225 million/year in 5 years. The amended version proposes only $10 million/year in the first year, increasing to $45 million/year over a period of 4 years.
“While we believe that this is a good start, it does not even come close to matching the problem of stormwater pollution,” said Kurt Fritts, Executive Director of Washington Conservation Voters. “We’re counting on lawmakers to hold firm against the oil industry and do what’s right for the people of Washington. That means funding this at a level that keeps our families safe and our water clean.”
The national oil lobby has intervened in our state to thwart our efforts to provide clean water and jobs, any efforts that fall under the “polluter pays” umbrella.
The “Clean Water Act of 2010” (HB 3181/ SB 6851) is an increase of the existing Hazardous Substance tax levied on over 8,000 toxic pollutants. It was introduced February 9 with 24 Senate co-sponsors and 35 House co-sponsors. Governor Gregoire has made this legislation a priority, including it in her revenue package. In a Feb 24 telephone town hall with over 5,000 environmental advocates, Governor Gregoire said that “now is the time for us to step up responsibly and get the Senate and the House to pass this bill. A day later isn’t going to do it for our children or for us.”
This Clean Water Act of 2010 is prime-sponsored by Rep. Timm Ormsby (Spokane) and Sen. Ed Murray (Seattle). Supporters of this proposal include Governor Christine Gregoire, the Environmental Priorities Coalition, Association of Washington Cities, Washington State Association of Counties, Washington State Labor Council, and Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council.
Contact: Brendon Cechovic, 206.437.6318, brendon@wcvoters.org
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