| Washington State House of Representatives |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Transportation Committee | |
HB 2453
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: Addressing the use of Washington state ferries' fare media by multiple drivers for multiple discounted trips.
Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Hasegawa, McIntire, Nelson and Rolfes.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/23/08
Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).
Background:
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Ferries Division operates and
maintains ferry vessels and terminals, constructs terminals, and acquires vessels. The system
serves eight Washington counties and one Canadian province through a fleet of 28 vessels and 20
terminals. The Washington State Ferries (WSF) also operates a maintenance facility at Eagle
Harbor.
Beginning in 2007, the WSDOT was required to review fares and pricing policies annually using
data from a current survey of users and input from affected ferry users. Beginning this year, fares
and pricing policies must be developed so that they: (1) recognize that each route is unique; (2)
use data from a current customer survey; (3) are developed with input from affected ferry users;
(4) generate the amount of revenue required by the biennial transportation budget; (5) consider
impacts on users, capacity, and local communities; (6) keep fare schedules as simple as possible;
and (7) consider options for using pricing to level vehicle peak demand and increase off-peak
ridership.
The Washington Transportation Commission is required to adopt the WSF's fares and pricing
policies, and may not raise ferry fares until the fare rules contain the new pricing policies
described above, or September 1, 2009, whichever is later.
Pursuant to rule, a monthly pass for travel on the WSF system is valid for a maximum of 31
round trips per month, and is nontransferable, nonreproducible, and intended for a single user.
Summary of Bill:
When the Washington Transportation Commission adopts fares and pricing policies, any fare
media that allow for multiple discounted trips on WSF vessels cannot be restricted to a particular
driver or drivers.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.