Signed by Governor Jay Inslee

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes new protections for Orca whales.

Highlights:

• Alleges that it is the duty of the Washington state legislature to protect the state's population of Southern Resident Orca whales (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that the state has a compelling interest in protecting the population of Southern Resident Orca Whales due to the dangers of extinction (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that beginning in 2025 it is illegal for vehicles to approach within 1000 meters of a resident southern Orca amongst other actions within the proximity of these whales (Sec. 2). 

• Specifies that this does not apply to vehicles operating under a vessel traffic service (Sec. 2). 

• Specifies that the department may issue educational material in lieu of an infraction at the discretion of the presiding officer (Sec. 2). 

• Authorizes the department to place speed requirement signs in highly visible areas near docks and moorings letting individuals know the limits while in the water with Orcas present (Sec. 2). 

• Authorizes the department to conduct education programs to inform the public on how to conduct themselves around Orcas (Sec. 2). 

• Specifies that individuals who have disengaged their transmission and are within 400 yards of any orca may not be charged if they do not reactivate their transmission (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text