SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6113

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 of January 26, 2012

Title: An act relating to the disclosure of personally identifying information on certain transit passes and fare payment media.

Brief Description: Concerning the disclosure of personally identifying information on certain transit passes and fare payment media.

Sponsors: Senator Prentice.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/25/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: Current law allows for certain transportation-related information to be exempt from public disclosure requirements. Current transportation-related exemptions include personally identifying information an agency may have on vanpool riders, paratransit participants or applicants, transit passes, and transponders. All transit pass and other fare media payment information may be disclosed in aggregate form, or for certain law enforcement purposes, if the request is accompanied by a court order.

The term personally identifying information, as it relates to transit passes and other fare media, is not currently defined.

Summary of Bill: As used in relation to transit passes and other fare media, the term personally identifying information is defined to include the purchase and use data collected on an individual's transit pass. The disclosure of aggregate data relating to transit passes is limited to purchase and use data.

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: PRO: This bill defines personally identifying information and prevents people from using this data to track other people. This bill clarifies that acquisition and use data may be disclosed in aggregate.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Prentice, prime sponsor; Cheryl Huston, Betty Ngam, ORCA Regional Program.