SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5905

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 February 13, 2019

Title: An act relating to prohibiting funds available to port districts from being allocated for the purchase of fully automated cargo handling equipment.

Brief Description: Prohibiting funds available to port districts from being allocated for the purchase of fully automated cargo handling equipment.

Sponsors: Senators Saldaña, Cleveland, Hunt, Hasegawa and Conway.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Local Government: 2/14/19.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Prohibits port districts from purchasing fully automated cargo handling equipment.

  • Allows port districts to purchase human-operated zero-emission or near zero-emission equipment.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff: Bonnie Kim (786-7316)

Background: Port Districts. Port districts are municipal corporations with the authority to acquire, construct, maintain, operate, develop, and regulate harbor improvements, and transfer and terminal facilities for rail, water, air, and motor vehicles. Port districts may take up an entire single county or may be less than countywide.

Summary of Bill: Ports may not allocate funds to purchase fully automated cargo handling equipment—equipment that is remotely operated or remotely monitored, with or without the exercise of human intervention or control. Port districts may use funds for the purchase of human-operated zero-emission or near zero-emission equipment.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.