On page 27, after line 23, insert the following:
     "(7) As a priority task, the Washington state ferries is directed to propose a comprehensive incident and accident investigation policy and appropriate procedures, and to provide the proposal to the legislature by November 1, 2009, using existing resources and staff expertise. In addition to consulting with ferry system unions and the United States coast guard, the Washington state ferries is encouraged to solicit independent outside expertise on incident and accident investigation best practices as they may be found in other organizations with a similar concern for marine safety. The proposed policy must contain, at a minimum:
     (a) The definition of an incident and an accident and the type of investigation that is required by both types of events;
     (b) The process for appointing an investigating officer or officers and a description of the authorities and responsibilities of the investigating officer or officers;
     (c) The process of working with the affected employee or employees in accordance with the employee's or employees' respective collective bargaining agreement and the appropriate union officials, within protocols afforded to all public employees;
     (d) The process by which the United States coast guard is kept informed of, interacts with, and reviews the investigation;
     (e) The process for review, approval, and implementation of any approved recommendations within the department; and
     (f) The process for keeping the public informed of the investigation and its outcomes, in compliance with any affected employee's or employees' respective collective bargaining agreement and state laws and rules regarding public disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW."