| Washington State House of Representatives |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Transportation Committee | |
HB 2730
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 provision of ferry service by port districts.
Sponsors: Representatives Rolfes, Appleton and Hudgins.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/21/08
Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).
Background:
In 2006, the Department of Transportation (WSDOT) was directed to establish a grant program
to provide operating or capital grants for passenger only ferries (POF) operated by counties,
county ferry districts, and public transportation benefit districts. At the same time, the
Washington State Ferries (WSF) was required to collaborate with counties, county ferry districts,
and public transportation benefit districts offering POF service for terminal operations at WSF's
existing terminals.
Port districts currently may acquire, lease, construct, purchase, maintain, and operate passenger
carrying vessels on interstate navigable rivers of Washington and intrastate waters of adjoining
states.
Summary of Bill:
The area in which port districts may offer ferry service is expanded to include the Puget Sound.
The types of entities eligible to receive grants for operating and capital expenditures from the
ferry grant program are expanded to include POF systems operated by port districts.
Port districts are added to the list of POF service providers with which the WSF system must
collaborate for terminal operations.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/18/08.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.