SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6443

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 5, 2014

Title: An act relating to time period and monetary limits on ferry vessel and terminal work by state forces.

Brief Description: Modifying time period and monetary limits on ferry vessel and terminal work by state forces.

Sponsors: Senators Liias, Angel, Eide, Bailey and Rolfes; by request of Department of Transportation.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/04/14.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: Current law limits the dollar amount of state highway work that the Department of Transportation may complete using state workers at $60,000. Anything above this amount must be contracted out. The ferry system is considered part of the state highway system and is also subject to this requirement.

In 2010 the Legislature passed ESHB 3209, which temporarily increased the dollar threshold for completing work on ferry vessels and terminals using state workers to $120,000 from March 15, 2010, through June 30, 2011. In the 2011-13 transportation budget, ESHB 1175, that time period was extended through June 30, 2013. These temporary increases to allow state ferry system workers to complete higher cost work have expired and the ferry system must comply with the $60,000 limit for using state workers to complete vessel and terminal work.

During the time period that vessel and terminal work for less than $120,000 could be completed by state workers, the ferry system completed one project that was above the original $60,000 limit. The ferry system operates a large maintenance facility at Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island.

Summary of Bill: Work for less than $200,000 may be completed by state workers on ferry vessels and terminals.

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: The goal is to have a skilled workforce at Eagle Harbor, giving more opportunities for work. This does not take work from the private sector, and saves money for the ferry system. The past limit expired and this increases the limit again. The ferry system only used the higher threshold once, but they anticipate using it more frequently in the future and saving several thousand dollars over the next few years. Eagle Harbor is a model jobsite and this bill will save the state money.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Liias, prime sponsor; David Moseley, WA State Dept. of Transportation; Gordon Baxter, Puget Sound Metal Trades Council.