Washington Oil Spill Prevention

Washington continues to face significant risks of oil spills in Puget Sound and the coast. These risks threaten local economies and the survival of iconic species like salmon and orcas. To address these risks, the state must have the same protections on barges and other vessels that exist for large tankers. On May 8th, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed House Bill 1578, which requires smaller-sized oil tankers to have a tug escort in certain areas near the San Juan Islands. This victory has taken many years to achieve and is important because of the ever changing sea-scape for oil transportation. This accomplishment included the support of a variety of partners including Tribes, and conservation organizations including the Stand Up To Oil Coalition (which Surfrider is a member of) as well as the Washington Environmental Priorities Coalition. Washington Chapters of Surfrider helped support this effort by advocacy for this prevention measure over several years, as well as attending Environmental Lobby day and meeting with their Reps and Senator, and writing letters and calling their legislators in support. See recent media coverage.