Washington State
House of Representatives
 BILL
ANALYSIS
Transportation Committee

HB 1282

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Prohibiting unauthorized proximity to ferry terminals.

Sponsors: Representatives Lovick, Strow and Haler.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits a person or vessel in the water from approaching within 25 yards of a Washington state ferry terminal structure over the water unless authorized by federal, state, or local authorities.
  • Prohibits a person from being underneath a Washington state ferry terminal unless authorized by federal, state, or local authorities.
  • Violations of these prohibitions are class 1 civil infractions punishable by a fine of up to $100.

Hearing Date: 1/25/07

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

The Washington State Ferries operates 24 vessels, 20 terminals, and the Eagle Harbor Maintenance facility. This system transports over 24 million passengers each year, providing service averaging 450 sailings per day, with peak sailings of up to 500 per day during the summer.

Under federal law, there is currently a 100 yard exclusion zone around any large passenger vessel that is underway or at anchor. This exclusion zone is reduced to 25 yards when the vessel is moored. The United States Coast Guard, federal law enforcement officers, and Washington law enforcement officers are all empowered to enforce this exclusion zone. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Puget Sound can waive these restrictions for a vessel or class vessel.


Summary of Bill:

A person or vessel in the water is not allowed within 25 yards of a Washington state ferry terminal structure over the water. Persons who have received authorization from federal, state, or local authorities are exempt from this restriction.

No person is allowed to be underneath a Washington state ferry terminal at any time. Persons who have received authorization from federal, state, or local authorities are exempt from this restriction.

A violation of these prohibitions is a class 1 civil infraction, which is punishable by a fine of up to $100.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/23/07.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.