FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 1943

C 58 L 01

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Expanding purposes of county rail districts.

Sponsors:  By Representatives Mulliken, Grant, G. Chandler and Dunshee.

House Committee on Local Government & Housing

Senate Committee on State & Local Government

Background:

Counties may establish one or more county rail districts to provide and fund improved rail freight service.  The county legislative authority or property owners may initiate a county rail district.  A district is governed by the county legislative authority and may levy excess taxes and issue bonds.  A district boundary must include any area next to the rail service from which agricultural or other goods can be shipped by rail and may not include an area that does not or is not expected to produce goods shipped by the rail service.

Summary:

In addition to establishing a district for rail freight service, counties may establish county rail districts to provide and fund improved passenger rail service.

Votes on Final Passage:

House922

Senate435

Effective:  July 22, 2001