HB 2606 - DIGEST

Recognizes the need to streamline governance of the transportation system in order to increase efficiency and accountability to the people it serves.

Declares an intent to create a single point of accountability for the performance of the state's transportation system by making the management of the department of transportation directly accountable to the governor.

Requires the legislative transportation committee to conduct a review and analysis of the statutory duties, roles, and functions of the transportation commission. The committee shall determine which responsibilities are administrative or ministerial in nature and should be transferred to the executive, and which responsibilities are policy setting in nature and should be transferred to the legislature.

Provides that, by December 15, 2004, the legislative transportation committee shall make recommendations to the house and senate transportation committees for streamlining, consolidating, or eliminating the duties, roles, and functions of the transportation commission.

Directs the legislative transportation committee to consult with affected agencies and other stakeholders in conducting its analysis.

Authorizes the committee to consult with and retain private professional and technical experts as necessary to ensure an independent review and analysis.

Repeals RCW 47.01.051 and 47.01.061.