FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 1330

                                   C 62 L 89

BYRepresentatives Walk, Schmidt, R. Meyers, Kremen, R. Fisher, Walker, Youngsman, S. Wilson, Winsley, Braddock, Brough, Raiter, Schoon, Pruitt and Spanel; by request of Director of County Road Administration Board

Changing provisions relating to ferry operation.

House Committe on Transportation

Senate Committee on Transportation

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

Four counties (Whatcom, Skagit, Pierce and Wahkiakum) have ferry operations.  Over the last 10 years each of these counties has had at least one ferry project funded from the federal Highway Trust Fund totalling nearly $4 million.

Review by the Inspector General indicates county ferry systems using federal funds for construction projects must be free from tolls, except in the case of ferries whose operating authority and fares are under the control of a state agency.  The Federal Highway Administration has asked for reimbursement of the $4 million.

Research of state law determined that RCW 47.04.140 requires county ferries to be franchised by the State Department of Transportation in order to be eligible for federal funding, although none of the counties has made such application.

The Inspector General has agreed to drop the request for reimbursement, provided the counties apply for franchises.

SUMMARY:

The process for franchising county ferry systems by the Department of Transportation is simplified.  Definition of eligibility for funding county docks and terminals is clarified.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 88   0

      Senate    43     0

EFFECTIVE:July 23, 1989