FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5227

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.

C 87 L 17

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Requiring drivers to stop for approaching other on-track equipment at railroad grade crossings.

Sponsors: Senators King, Hobbs, Hasegawa, Saldaña and Kuderer.

Senate Committee on Transportation

House Committee on Transportation

Background: Current law requires drivers of vehicles on the road to stop at railroad crossings for trains and signals that indicate the approach of a train. Current law also requires counties, the Department of Transportation, and railroad companies to keep their respective rights-of-way clear of brush and timber near railroad crossings in order for drivers of vehicles on the road to clearly see approaching trains.

Summary: Statutes requiring drivers on the road to stop at railroad crossings for trains, or signals that indicates the approach of a train, are modified to also require drivers to stop for other on-track equipment.

Counties, the Department of Transportation, and railroad companies are required to keep their respective rights-of-way clear of brush and timber near railroad crossing in order for drivers of vehicles on the road to clearly see approaching on-track equipment.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate

49

0

House

96

0

Effective:

July 23, 2017