HB 1024

Phasing out the use of polybrominated diphenyl ethers.

By a vote of 41 to 8 on April 3, the Senate approved HB 1024, which would prohibit the sale, manufacture or distribution of products that contain polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), chemicals found in certain flame retardants, after Jan. 1, 2008. The bill makes several exemptions including, products containing Deca-BDEs (except for residential upholstered furniture, televisions, or computers), used vehicles containing PBDEs, and equipment used for military or federally funded space programs. The bill also requires an exemption for certain products if a safer alternative is not found by Dec. 15, 2008. The bill has already passed the House.

Sens. Erik Poulsen and Jeanne Kohl-Welles both voted Yes.

HB 1094

Making transportation appropriations for 2007-2009.

By a vote of 44 to 3 on March 31, the Senate approved HB 1094, which would make appropriations to the 2007-09 state transportation budget. The transportation budget is one of three budgets approved by the Legislature each year. These appropriations pay for transportation-related activities such as building and maintaining roads, operating the state ferry system and public safety.

Sens. Erik Poulsen and Jeanne Kohl-Welles both voted Yes.

HB 1128

Making operating appropriations for 2007-2009.

By a vote of 30 to 17 on March 31, the Senate approved HB 1128, which would make appropriations to the 2007-09 state operating budget. The operating budget is one of three budgets approved by the Legislature each year. These appropriations pay for general state services such as state employee salaries, basic education, and social services.

Sens. Erik Poulsen and Jeanne Kohl-Welles both voted Yes.

HB 1458

Requiring notice to property owners before condemnation decisions.

By a vote of 49 to 0 on April 3, the Senate approved HB 1458, which would require at least 15 days of public notice prior to any public meeting that will make a final decision on property condemnation. Notices must be sent to impacted property owners by certified mail and published in local newspapers. Failing to comply with providing sufficient notice would void condemnation decisions affecting the specific individuals who were not properly notified. The bill has already passed the House and is now under consideration by the Governor.

Sens. Erik Poulsen and Jeanne Kohl-Welles both voted Yes.

HB 2171

Regarding crane safety.

By a vote of 39 to 8 on March 31, the Senate approved HB 2171, which would address provisions relating to crane safety. The bill would require the Department of Labor and Industries to establish a crane certification program. The department must also develop standards for designating a person to be a qualified crane operator. Employers or contractors would be prohibited from allowing non-qualified crane operators from operating a crane except for training purposes. The bill has already passed the House and is now under consideration by the Governor.

Sens. Erik Poulsen and Jeanne Kohl-Welles both voted Yes.

WashingtonVotes.org, a free, non-partisan website to find plain-English explanations of bills and a record of each legislator's votes. Visit www.WashingtonVotes.org .