SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6436

As of February 2, 2004

Title: An act relating to high-occupancy vehicle lane restrictions.

Brief Description: Opening HOV lanes on weekends.

Sponsors: Senators Horn, Murray, Swecker, Mulliken, Esser, Oke, Stevens and Benton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Highways & Transportation: 2/4/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Janice Baumgardt (786-7319)

Background: The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and local governments are authorized to reserve any portion of a highway under their jurisdiction as a high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane. HOV lanes may be designated for the exclusive use of public transportation vehicles or private vehicles carrying not less than a specified number of persons. HOVs may be restricted at all times, at specified times of day, or on specified days.

Summary of Bill: Weekend periods (from Friday starting at 7 pm until Monday at 6 am) are exempt from the restriction authority. The I-90 reversible lanes are not subject to the weekend exception.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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