FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6271

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.

Background: A Regional Transit Authority (RTA) may be established in two or more contiguous counties each having a population of 400,000 persons or more. A RTA must be established for the purpose of operating a high capacity transportation system. Sound Transit, which operates in Snohomish, King, and Pierce Counties, is the only RTA.

Areas adjacent to a RTA that would benefit from the RTAs services may be annexed to the RTA through a three-step process. First, the governing body of the RTA must adopt a resolution proposing annexation. Second, the annexation must be approved by the governing body of any city proposed to be annexed or by the county legislative authority if the area proposed to be annexed is unincorporated. Third, voters residing in the area proposed to be annexed must approve a ballot proposition authorizing the annexation and the imposition of taxes already imposed by the RTA.

Several cities on the east side of Lake Washington in King County have portions of the city inside and outside of the RTA. Pierce County and Snohomish County each have one city that is partly outside of the RTA. Legal obligations, including taxing obligations, are different for residents and businesses depending on whether they are located inside or outside of the RTA.

Currently, if a city or part of a city is within a RTA's boundaries, and the city annexes an area, the annexed area is not automatically included in the RTA.

Summary: When an area outside of RTA boundaries is annexed to a city or a code city located within the boundaries of a RTA, the annexed area is simultaneously included within the boundaries of the RTA. From the effective date of the annexation, the annexed area is subject to the taxes, liabilities, and obligations imposed by the RTA within the city. The city or code city must notify the RTA of the annexation.

This act will apply only to annexations that occur after the law takes effect.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	45	0
House	57	37