Washington HB1303 aims to improve government decisions by increasing environmental justice.

HB1303 mandates that lead agencies complete an environmental justice impact statement for projects in pollution burdened communities. The statement must assess existing environmental and public health stressors, potential impacts of the project, and measures to avoid or mitigate disproportionate impacts. The bill defines "pollution burdened community" and "potentially impactful project," and excludes certain projects from review. The lead agency must consider the statement and public comments before approving or denying the project.

Washington HB1303 aims to improve government decisions by increasing environmental justice.

HB1303 mandates that lead agencies complete an environmental justice impact statement for projects in pollution burdened communities. The statement must assess existing environmental and public health stressors, potential impacts of the project, and measures to avoid or mitigate disproportionate impacts. The bill defines "pollution burdened community" and "potentially impactful project," and excludes certain projects from review. The lead agency must consider the statement and public comments before approving or denying the project.