Concerning urban forest management ordinances.

HB 1153 creates a framework for cities to use "tree banks" that allow developers to remove trees in one area if they plant or pay to add trees elsewhere in neighborhoods needing greater canopy coverage - such as those facing environmental inequality, urban heat islands, or areas critical for salmon/orca recovery. It requires the Department of Natural Resources to develop voluntary model regulations for local governments, emphasizing the protection of "vital trees" first while enabling housing development. The bill amends state law to define key terms like "tree bank," "highly impacted community," and "urban forest," ensuring local rules balance tree preservation with housing needs. It does not mandate adoption of the model rules, leaving implementation decisions to individual cities and counties.