SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5440
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 Reported by Senate Committee On:
Transportation, February 5, 2009
Title: An act relating to naming state ferries.
Brief Description: Involving tribal governments when choosing names for state ferries.
Sponsors: Senators Sheldon, Kauffman, Kline, Roach and McDermott.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/04/09, 2/05/09 [DPS].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5440 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.
Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Becker, Berkey, Delvin, Eide, Jarrett, Kastama, Kauffman, Kilmer, King, Ranker and Sheldon.
Staff: Janice Baumgardt (786-7319)
Background: The Transportation Commission (Commission) has the authority to name or rename state transportation facilities and must consult with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) before taking final action. Any governmental or private entity or person may initiate the process. In order for the Commission to consider a naming or renaming proposal, the requesting entity or person must provide evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal.
Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.
Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): Language is added to clarify that state ferries are part of the facilities the Commission may name. Language is also added to clarify that letters of support from and resolutions passed by federally recognized tribal governments are evidence indicating community support and acceptance of the proposal. When naming or renaming a ferry vessel, the Commission must consider selling those naming rights and making recommendations in that regard to the Legislature.
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 Muckleshoot Tribe has a strong history of Puget Sound culture and so should be considered as a name for a ferry vessel.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Rick Jensen, Muckleshoot Indian Tribe; Dan O'Neal, Transportation Commission.