Earlier this year, HB 1931 was introduced, striking the sunset date for the license fee charged to hydropower project owners and the progress report requirements. AWC wrote about the bill here.

On Tuesday, February 15, the bill was heard on the House floor where it was amended to extend the expiration date of the fee from June 30, 2023 to June 30, 2029.

AWC believes there is great value in a regular review of this fee structure and program, allowing for a collaborative dialogue with Ecology on appropriate program modifications. We would like to thank the bill sponsor, Rep. Jake Fey (D–Tacoma), for responding to our concerns and extending the sunset.