Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1880
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. |
Brief Description: Limiting the scope of the department of transportation's administration of the state's ferry system.
Sponsors: Representative Seaquist.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/26/13
Staff: Paul Ingiosi (786-7114).
Background:
The Washington State Ferries (WSF) division of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) operates and maintains ferry vessels and terminals, constructs terminals, and acquires vessels. The system serves eight Washington counties and one Canadian province through 22 vessels and 20 terminals.
The Puget Sound Capital Construction Account is the main account used by the WSF for vessel acquisition, vessel construction, major and minor vessel improvements, and terminal construction and improvements. Expenditures from this account occur only after appropriations are made by the Legislature.
Since 2010 the WSDOT has acquired three new vessels, contracted for the construction of two additional new vessels, and budgeted approximately $71 million for terminal improvement and preservation projects.
Under current law, the WSF has the authority to procure materials, supplies, services, and equipment for the support, maintenance, and use of a ferry, ferry terminal, or other facility operated by the WSF or through a formal competitive request for proposals (RFP) solicitation. Current law also allows the WSF to purchase new ferries through a Design-Build partnership following a modified RFP process.
Summary of Bill:
The WSDOT is prohibited from designing, constructing, or making substantial alterations to ferries or ferry facilities unless directed by the Legislature. The term "substantial alterations" is defined to mean any project anticipated to cost more than 25 percent of the fair market value of the ferry or ferry facility at the time of the alteration.
The WSDOT is still permitted to purchase or acquire ferries or ferry facilities.
The restrictions on design, construction, or alterations begin on January 1, 2015.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on January 1, 2014.