The legislature finds that energy in various forms is increasingly subject to possible shortages and supply disruptions, to the point that there may be foreseen an emergency situation, and that without the ability to institute appropriate emergency measures to regulate the production, distribution, and use of energy, a severe impact on the public health, safety, and general welfare of our state's citizens may occur. The prevention or mitigation of such energy shortages or disruptions and their effects is necessary for preservation of the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of this state.

     It is the intent of this chapter to:

     (1) Establish necessary emergency powers for the governor and define the situations under which such powers are to be exercised;

     (2) Provide penalties for violations of this chapter.

     It is further the intent of the legislature that in developing proposed orders under the powers granted in RCW 43.21G.040 as now or hereafter amended the governor may utilize, on a temporary or ad hoc basis, the knowledge and expertise of persons experienced in the technical aspects of energy supply, distribution, or use. Such utilization shall be in addition to support received by the governor from the *department of community, trade, and economic development under RCW 43.21F.045 and **43.21F.065 and from other state agencies.

[1996 c 186 § 507; 1981 c 295 § 11; 1977 ex.s. c 328 § 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 108 § 15.]

NOTES:

     Reviser's note: *(1) The "department of community, trade, and economic development" was renamed the "department of commerce" by 2009 c 565.

     **(2) RCW 43.21F.065 was repealed by 1996 c 186 § 524, effective July 1, 1996.

     Findings -- Intent -- Part headings not law -- Effective date -- 1996 c 186: See notes following RCW 43.330.904.

     Severability -- 1977 ex.s. c 328: "If any provision of this 1977 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [1977 ex.s. c 328 § 20.]