HB 271 Summary

• Defines "consult" and "consultation" with basin advisory groups and watershed advisory groups to require the director to provide available information, utilize the groups' knowledge and expertise, and consider their recommendations

• Requires the director to consult with basin advisory groups and watershed advisory groups when designating beneficial uses for surface water bodies, considering existing uses, physical/biological measures, attainability factors, and economic impacts

• Requires consultation with basin advisory groups and watershed advisory groups when identifying reference streams or conditions and when monitoring to determine if designated beneficial uses are fully supported

• Requires consultation with basin advisory groups and watershed advisory groups when conducting beneficial use attainability surveys and when identifying water bodies where designated beneficial uses are not fully supported

• Makes technical corrections and clarifications to definitions and procedures related to water quality standards, designated uses, and the director's authority under state water quality law