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Bill

SB 5371

Protecting southern resident orcas from vessels.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Hasegawa and 14 co-sponsors

Washington restricts vessel speeds and approach distances near southern resident orcas to prevent strikes and acoustic disturbance of the critically endangered species population.

Effective date 7/23/2023*.
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Bill Summary · SB 5371

Legislative bill overview

SB 5371 establishes vessel regulations to protect endangered southern resident orca whales in Washington waters, including speed limits, approach distance restrictions, and enhanced enforcement measures. The bill imposes operational constraints on boats within designated marine areas to minimize disturbance and injury to these critically depleted cetaceans.

Why is this important

Southern resident orcas number fewer than 75 individuals and face extinction without intervention. Vessel strikes and noise pollution significantly stress these animals, disrupting their ability to hunt, communicate, and reproduce, making regulatory protection a conservation priority.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impacts on maritime industries: Commercial and recreational boating operators face operational restrictions and increased compliance costs, particularly affecting fishing, tourism, and shipping sectors
  • Scope of enforcement: Questions about resources for monitoring compliance across Washington waters and whether penalties adequately deter violations
  • Effectiveness uncertainty: Scientific debate over whether vessel regulations alone address root causes (salmon depletion, pollution) or merely manage symptoms of broader ecosystem decline

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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