Committee hears opposing views on bill to limit high‑sulfur ship fuel and scrubber discharges in Washington waters

The Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee on Jan. 31 heard hours of testimony on Senate Bill 5519, a measure that would bar vessels from using marine fuels exceeding 0.1% sulfur by weight while operating within 3 nautical miles of Washington shorelines beginning Jan. 1, 2028, and would establish recordkeeping and limited noncompliance fee provisions.

Sponsor Sen. Liz Lovelett (D‑40) framed the bill as a public‑health and environmental protection measure for the Salish Sea and Puget Sound. "These fuels are far more readily available than they were even 10 years ago," Lovelett said, and argued the bill would reduce particulates and other pollutants that affect marine life, crew and coastal communities.

Industry associations, ports and some carriers opposed the bill or urged major revisions. Jacqueline Moore of the Pacific Merchant…