The words and phrases defined
in this section shall have the following meanings when used in
this chapter unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
(1) "Authorized contractor" means a person who
decontaminates, demolishes, or disposes of contaminated property
as required by this chapter who is certified by the department as
provided for in RCW 64.44.060.
(2) "Contaminated" or "contamination" means polluted by
hazardous chemicals so that the property is unfit for human
habitation or use due to immediate or long-term hazards.
Property that at one time was contaminated but has been
satisfactorily decontaminated according to procedures established
by the state board of health is not "contaminated."
(3) "Department" means the department of health.
(4) "Hazardous chemicals" means the following substances
associated with the illegal manufacture of controlled substances:
(a) Hazardous substances as defined in RCW 70.105D.020; (b)
precursor substances as defined in RCW 69.43.010 which the state
board of health, in consultation with the state board of
pharmacy, has determined present an immediate or long-term health
hazard to humans; and (c) the controlled substance or substances
being manufactured, as defined in RCW 69.50.101.
(5) "Officer" means a local health officer authorized under
chapters 70.05, 70.08, and 70.46 RCW.
(6) "Property" means any real or personal property, or
segregable part thereof, that is involved in or affected by the
unauthorized manufacture, distribution, or storage of hazardous
chemicals. This includes but is not limited to single-family
residences, units of multiplexes, condominiums, apartment
buildings, boats, motor vehicles, trailers, manufactured housing,
any shop, booth, garden, or storage shed, and all contents of the
items referenced in this subsection.
[2006 c 339 § 201; 1999 c 292 § 2; 1990 c 213 § 2.]
NOTES:
Intent -- Part headings not law -- 2006 c 339: See notes following RCW 70.96A.325.
Finding -- Intent -- 1999 c 292: "The legislature finds that the contamination of properties used for illegal drug manufacturing poses a threat to public health. The toxic chemicals left behind by the illegal drug manufacturing must be cleaned up to prevent harm to subsequent occupants of the properties. It is the intent of the legislature that properties are decontaminated in a manner that is efficient, prompt, and that makes them safe to reoccupy." [1999 c 292 § 1.]
Effective date -- 1990 c 213 §§ 2, 12: "Sections 2 and 12 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety or support of the state government and its public institutions, and shall take effect on the effective date of the 1989-91 supplemental omnibus appropriations act (SSB 6407) [April 23, 1990] if specific funding for this act is provided therein." [1990 c 213 § 17.]