Washington State
House of Representatives
BILL
ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SSB 6569


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: Permitting public transit vehicle stops at unmarked stop zones under certain circumstances.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen, Swecker, Hatfield and Holmquist).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill
  • Allows public transit drivers outside of cities and towns to stop their vehicles at any location in order to receive or discharge passengers, so long as it is done in a safe location, with lights flashing, and the vehicle stops as far to the right side of the roadway as is practicable.

Hearing Date: 2/28/08

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

Drivers are generally not allowed to stop or park a vehicle on the roadway outside of incorporated cities or towns. However, exceptions to this rule are specified for: (1) the driver of any vehicle that is disabled such that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving the vehicle; (2) the driver of a public transit vehicle who temporarily stops the vehicle in order to receive and discharge passengers at a marked transit vehicle stop zone; and (3) the driver of a solid waste collection company who temporarily stops the vehicle as far to the right as practical in order to collect solid waste or recyclables.

Summary of Bill:

Public transportation service providers, including certain nonprofit organizations, may allow the driver of a transit vehicle to stop upon a roadway in an unincorporated area momentarily to receive or discharge passengers at an unmarked stop zone. However, the driver must: (1) stop the vehicle as far to the right side of the roadway as is practicable so as to not significantly impede traffic; (2) activate four-way flashing lights; and (3) stop at a portion of the highway with an unobstructed view for drivers approaching from behind the transit vehicle.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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