SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6211
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Transportation, January 14, 2010
Title: An act relating to creating an agricultural scenic corridor within the scenic and recreational highway system.
Brief Description: Creating an agricultural scenic corridor within the scenic and recreational highway system.
Sponsors: Senators Haugen, Hatfield and Kohl-Welles.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/11/10, 1/14/10 [DPS].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6211 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.
Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Becker, Berkey, Delvin, Hatfield, Kastama, Kauffman, Kilmer, King and Sheldon.
Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)
Background: The Scenic and Recreational Highway System was created in statue in 1967. Modifications to the state process for classifying highways as part of the scenic highway system were made in 1999 in order to make Washington highways competitive under the new federal "Scenic Byways" grant program. Additional highways and the ferry system have been added over time to the scenic highway system either through recommendation from the Department of Transportation followed by legislation, or direct legislation. The Transportation Commission may designate, on an interim basis, state scenic byways. In order to become permanent, the Legislature must approve this designation.
Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): A portion of State Route 5 in Skagit and Snohomish counties, between Starbird Road and Bow Hill Road, is designated as part of the scenic and recreational highway system. It is also designated as an agricultural scenic corridor. An agricultural scenic corridor is described as an area that showcases the state's historical agricultural area and promotes the maintenance and enhancement of agricultural areas.
EFFECT OF CHANGES MADE BY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE (Recommended Substitute): A description of an agricultural scenic corridor is added. The section of State Route 5 to be designated as part of the scenic and recreational highway system and also designated as an agricultural scenic corridor is changed to be one contiguous area from Starbird Road to Bow Hill Road.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony on Original Bill: PRO: This bill has no fiscal impact. This is another tool to promote farmland and allow access to federal grants. This is a historic area with fourth generation farmers working in this area. This bill will draw attention to the rich history of farming in this area and help promote agri-tourism business. The Department of Agriculture (DOA) supports this bill.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Allen Rozema, Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, Mike Shelby, Western Washington Agricultural Association, Jeff Canaan, Washington State DOA.