SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6495
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 of February 7, 2008
Title: An act relating to requiring the appointment of nonvoting labor members to public transportation governing bodies.
Brief Description: Requiring the appointment of nonvoting labor members to public transportation governing bodies.
Sponsors: Senators McDermott, Marr, Fairley, Pridemore and Kline.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/05/08.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)
Background: Under current law, the various local transit systems have different governing bodies specified in statute. Generally, transit system governing bodies are composed of local county and city elected officials from within the transit system area. In some cases, citizen members sit on transit system governing bodies.
Summary of Bill: Any public transportation system governing body must include one nonvoting member recommended by the labor organization representing a majority of the public transportation employees within the respective area.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The union membership of transit agencies offers
a different perspective than does management. Transit operators should have some say
concerning transit agency operations. Union membership are not asking for a voting role on
transit boards. Transit boards would benefit from hearing a different voice during their
deliberations, as public testimony is typically not considered prior to a board vote. The bill would
not change existing labor/management relationships.
CON: This bill is not needed, as many federal and state provisions exist to protect union
interests. Transit management frequently solicits union input. The bill upsets the current system,
damaging management/labor relationships. A better idea would be to encourage collaboration
between the two parties. Finally, it is not a good idea to give certain employee groups at seat on
the board and not others.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Dennis Antonellis, ATU 1015; Karen Stites, ATU 1765.
CON: Mike Harbour, Intercity Transit; Dave Turissini, Jefferson Transit.