Warnick: A Temporary Hirst Fix Is Not The Answer

One of the most heated issues during the 2017 legislative session has not been addressed, at least not to the linking of many Republicans across Washington.  The Hirst Fix, which would have addressed October’s Hirst Decision on Water Rights, passed the state Senate four times this session, by failed to get a vote in the House.  Senator Judy Warnick who penned the legislation told the Washington Ag Network while Democrats refused to discuss the legislation, they offered no fixes.  And while many Democrats have proposed a temporary fix to Hirst, Warnick said would be worse than no fix at all.

“Because people could maybe get a permit within 18 months or two years, maybe get a house built, but no guarantee on that.  So, what happens when they are put in limbo on that as well.”

Warnick said in addition, bankers would not be interested in loaning for construction where a temporary water permit is issued.  Warnick added Hirst has become a rural v urban issue.

"The Hirst Bill is so important to so many people in Republican districts and rural districts and I’ll just say it that way.  There are very, very few people that want to drill a well in any Democrat districts in the state.  So, it’s coming down to a rural versus urban fight.”

Warnick said Republicans are prepared to pass the Capital Budget, which she says is ready to go, but first the GOP is insisting on a permanent fix for Hirst.

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