SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6380
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 6, 2014
Title: An act relating to deficit reimbursement agreements with counties owning and operating ferry systems.
Brief Description: Concerning deficit reimbursement agreements with counties owning and operating ferry systems.
Sponsors: Senator O'Ban.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/05/14.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)
Background: The Washington State Department of Transportation may reimburse Pierce, Skagit, and Whatcom counties for up to 50 percent of any deficit that is incurred during the previous fiscal year. The total reimbursement may not exceed $1 million during a biennium.
Summary of Bill: The total reimbursement to Pierce, Skagit, and Whatcom counties for any deficit that is incurred may not exceed $1.8 million during the 2013-15 biennium.
For subsequent biennia, the maximum reimbursement amount is increased by the average growth in state personal income for the prior ten years.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
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: Pierce County operates a two-boat ferry system that serves about 400,000 people. The deficit reimbursement rate has not been increased since 1991. Had this been increased at the rate of inflation it would be about $1.8 million and that is how that number was selected. Pierce County receives half of the reimbursement because of the size of the system but the reimbursement only accounts for 13 percent of the actual deficit.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Deb Wallace, Pierce County.