The Department of Ecology currently collects annual fees from hydropower project owners; these fees go to support Ecology and the United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) cooperative streamflow gauging program. Under this program, the waterpower fees requirement is set to expire on June 30, 2023, as is the biennial progress report submitted to the Legislature that considers an extension of the fee structure. HB 1931, sponsored by Rep. Jake Fey (D–Tacoma), strikes this sunset date and progress report requirement.

By striking the program sunset, reevaluation of the program and fee structure will no longer take place. 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. Removing the sunset date would eliminate this opportunity. We encourage the bill sponsor to consider an extension of the sunset.

Date to remember

HB 1931 will be heard in the House Appropriations Committee on January 25 at 3:30 pm.