Sen. Keith Goehner/R-Dryden/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… In a significant step forward for Washington’s energy infrastructure, the House of Representatives has passed Senate Bill 5317, sponsored by Sen. Keith Goehner, R-Dryden. If the Senate agrees with changes made by the House, the bill will head to the governor for his consideration.
Goehner has brought the energy-policy experience he gained as a state representative to his first Senate term, where he is working to prioritize regulatory efficiency, energy development, and improved collaboration between state and local governments. SB 5317 would deliver on those commitments by removing legal ambiguities that can stall energy projects and burden local governments with unnecessary hurdles.
His bill clarifies that when local governments—cities or counties—enter into agreements with the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) for technical assistance, permitting support, or facility inspections, they are automatically compliant with all applicable state and local laws. This statutory clarification reduces the risk of legal disputes, accelerates project timelines, and supports the development of clean energy infrastructure.
Goehner, R-Dryden, issued this statement following the House vote:
“This bill gives local governments the legal certainty they need to work with EFSEC confidently. By clarifying compliance with state and local laws, we’re reducing red tape, minimizing litigation risks, and ultimately speeding up the development of critical energy infrastructure.”
“Streamlining the permitting process is key to supporting Washington’s transition to clean energy. SB 5317 ensures that cities and counties can provide technical assistance without concern of litigation, helping them move forward on energy projects more efficiently. This is about smart collaboration between EFSEC and local governments.”
For more information on Goehner’s legislative work, visit keithgoehner.src.wastateleg.org.
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