SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5689

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 18, 2009

Title: An act relating to a transportation funding study by the joint transportation committee.

Brief Description: Requiring the joint transportation committee to conduct a comprehensive research and analysis effort on transportation funding.

Sponsors: Senators Ranker, Haugen and Marr.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/18/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: David Ward (786-7341)

Background: The 2007 Joint Transportation Committee (JTC) study on long-term transportation financing, the National Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing Commission, National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Commission, and numerous other recent national and state-level transportation revenue studies have concluded that existing sources of long-term transportation funding are not sustainable.

Summary of Bill: Subject to appropriation, the JTC will conduct a comprehensive analysis of mid-term and long-term transportation funding mechanisms and methods. Elements of the study will include existing data and trends, policy objectives, performance and evaluation criteria, incremental transition strategies, and possibly, include scaled testing.

Baseline data and methods assessment must be concluded by December 31, 2009. Performance criteria must be developed by June 30, 2010, and recommended planning level alternative funding strategies must be completed by December 31, 2010.

The study method is to be iterative based on direction from the JTC and intended to facilitate the development and possible implementation of alternative transportation funding methods.

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: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.