YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Washington lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow the state to impose a $150 fee to apply for a hydraulic project permit.
Those permits are required any time someone wants to conduct a construction project that could divert or change the natural flow of water.
The permit was established in 1943. State officials say it is the only remaining major environmental permit in the state where no fee is charged.
Lawmakers have previously rejected a similar proposal. Supporters say they fear the program will be diminished without the fee and that fish and their habitat could suffer. Critics counter that the antiquated program needs to be updated before any fee is considered.
