Publication Summary

The Spill Prevention, Preparedness and Response Program of the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) is proposing revisions to the rules governing oil transfer operations that occur over state waters. The proposed rule changes will create standards for safe oil transfer operations as a strategy to meet a zero spill goal established by the Washington State legislature. Pursuant to RCW 34.05.328, prior to adopting a proposed rule, all agencies of the Washington State government must: "…(c) determine that the probable benefits of the rule are greater than its probable costs taking into account both the qualitative and quantitative benefits and costs and the specific directives of the statute being implemented; (d) determine, after considering alternative versions of the rule and the analysis required under…(c) of this subsection, that the rule being adopted is the least burdensome alternative for those required to comply with it that will achieve the general goals and specific objectives stated under (a) of this subsection." This economic report contains a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) detailing the estimates of the expected costs and benefits that may result from implementing proposed WAC 173.180 and WAC 173.184 [Facility Oil Handling Standards; new Vessel Oil Transfer Advance Notice and Containment Requirement) and, is intended to satisfy RCW 34.05.328.