Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1945
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: Requiring the evaluation of options to mitigate the effect of tolling Interstate 90 west of Interstate 405 on certain residents.
Sponsors: Representatives Clibborn and Maxwell.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 2/27/13
Staff: Andrew Russell (786-7143).
Background:
Only the Legislature may authorize the imposition of tolls on eligible facilities. In 2008 the Legislature directed the formation of the "State Route Number 520 Tolling Implementation Committee" (Committee). This Committee's duties included soliciting citizen views on a toll being imposed on the Interstate 90 (I-90) floating bridge. Additionally, the 2012 Supplemental Transportation Budget provided $1.5 million to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) in order to conduct an environmental review of tolling I-90 between Interstate 5 and Interstate 405.
Summary of Bill:
During any current or future study, the WSDOT must explore and evaluate options to mitigate the effect that tolling I-90 could have on certain residents. The WSDOT is required to consider three options in particular: (1) allowing Washington citizens to traverse one segment of the tolled portion of I-90 without paying a toll; (2) allowing certain residents to choose one segment of the tolled portion of I-90 upon which these residents may travel without paying a toll; and (3) assessing a toll only when a driver crosses the entire tolled portion of I-90. Additionally, the WSDOT is empowered to consider other options that conform to the purpose of the bill.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.