SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 2033 

As of April 3, 2003

Title: An act relating to requiring regional transportation investment district tax revenue to be allocated proportionally among member counties.

Brief Description: Requiring regional transportation investment district tax revenue to be allocated proportionally among member counties.

Sponsors: Representatives Shabro, Conway, Priest, McDonald, Tom, Darneille, McMahan, Flannigan, Carrell, Campbell, Lantz, Talcott, Roach, Bailey, Kirby and Kristiansen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Highways & Transportation: 4/3/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: Under current law, counties with a population greater than 1.5 million persons and adjoining counties with a population greater than 500,000 persons may create a regional transportation investment district (RTID) for the purposes of planning and implementing regional transportation improvements. RTIDs are granted several local voter-approved funding options to fund the improvements, including a sales and use tax, vehicle license fee, parking tax, motor vehicle excise tax, employer tax, and vehicle tolls.

Summary of Bill: Revenues raised by an RTID must be allocated proportionately to member counties based on tax revenue generated and must be used for the benefit of the county within which the revenue is generated. The district retains authority to manage debt and project schedules, and revenues from the entire district can be pledged to support bonds issued by the district.

The transportation investment plan within a single county can be modified if: (1) a majority of the RTID board approves modifications that are limited to projects within the county; (2) the modifications maintain equity among counties; and (3) the voters within the county approve the changes. If the voters decline the plan modifications, the original plan remains in place.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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