SB 5850-S.E - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 3/13/03)

Finds that diminished state transportation resources require that regional and local authorities be authorized to develop, operate, and fund needed services.

Declares an intent that the state provide for a transition from state-provided to local service and that the department of transportation provide resources to assist in this effort.

Declares an intent to encourage interlocal agreements to ensure passenger-only ferry service is maintained on routes that the Washington state ferry system eliminates.

Provides that a public transportation benefit area having a boundary located on Puget Sound may implement a passenger ferry service.

Provides that a public transportation benefit area may, as part of a passenger ferry investment plan, recommend some or all of the following revenue sources as provided in this act: (1) A motor vehicle excise tax;

(2) A sales and use tax;

(3) Tolls for passengers and packages and, where applicable, parking; and

(4) Charges or licensing fees for advertising, leasing space for services to ferry passengers, and other revenue-generating activities.

Provides that taxes may not be imposed without an affirmative vote of the majority of the voters within the boundaries of the area voting on a single ballot proposition to both approve a passenger ferry investment plan and to approve taxes to implement the plan. Revenues from these taxes and fees may be used only to implement the plan. A district may contract with the state department of revenue or other appropriate entities for administration and collection of any of the taxes or charges authorized in this act.