Governor Jay Inslee has signed a bill into law that greatly extends the distance vessels have to maintain between them and Southern Resident orcas.

The bill co-sponsored by 40th District Senator Liz Lovelett and Sharon Shewmake of the 42nd requires boats to stay 1,000 yards away from the distinct orcas.

Whale experts say marine noise hinders the orcas’ ability to hunt and navigate.

The new distance rule takes effect in 2025.