HOUSE BILL REPORT
SSB 6794
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.
As Passed House:
February 12, 2008
Title: An act relating to the procurement of new ferry vessels that carry no more than one hundred motor vehicles.
Brief Description: Requiring the procurement of new ferry vessels that carry no more than one hundred motor vehicles.
Sponsors: By Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen, Spanel, Shin and Rockefeller; by request of Governor Gregoire).
Brief History:
Floor Activity:
Passed House: 2/12/08, 80-17.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).
Background:
Washington State Ferries own four 80-year-old Steel Electric class vessels – the Quinault,
Klickitat, Illahee, and Nisqually. While active, these vessels predominantly served the Port
Townsend-Keystone and San Juan Islands inter-island routes. They were the only vehicle
ferries in the fleet capable of operating on the Port Townsend-Keystone route due to
Keystone's narrow and shallow harbor.
In November 2007 the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) ordered all
four steel electric class vessels removed from service due to corrosion and pitting discovered
in the hull of the vessels.
Summary:
The intent section declares that an expedited procurement is required for the construction of
new vessels to replace the steel electric class vessels and restore permanent auto and
passenger service on routes previously served by steel electric class vessels.
The WSDOT is directed to construct one or more new ferry vessels for service on routes that
require a vessel that carries fewer than 100 motor vehicles.
The vessel or vessels must be constructed within the boundaries of Washington, except for
equipment furnished by the state and standard manufactured components, products, and
systems. All warranty work on any vessel or vessels must also be performed in Washington,
to the extent this is practicable.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
None.
Persons Testifying: None.