SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5196
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 25, 2015
Title: An act relating to funding for certain transportation planning organizations.
Brief Description: Concerning funding for certain transportation planning organizations.
Sponsors: Senator Benton.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/25/15.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)
Background: Metropolitian Planning Organizations (MPOs) are federally recognized local planning entities that are eligible to receive federal planning funds. An MPO covers an urbanized area and receives federal funding in support of its planning efforts. MPOs develop long-range plans, coordinate within a region, and prepare a transportation improvement program.
A Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) is formed through a voluntary association of local governments within a county or contiguous counties. RTPO members include cities, counties, the Department of Transportation, tribes, ports, transportation service providers, private employers, and others, as either direct RTPO members or members of RTPO Transportation Policy Boards. RTPOs receive state funds to complete various regional planning tasks. In urbanized areas, the RTPO is the same as the MPO designated for federal transportation planning purposes.
Summary of Bill: State funds may not be provided to an RTPO or an MPO if either organization has received federal funds in the same biennium.
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: Clark Council supports this bill. These state funds could be used for other purposes.
CON: Passing this bill would eliminate funding in small areas and rural communities for planning. RTPOs use state funds to utilize the skills that MPOs have. It is not double dipping. WSDOT has concerns with this bill. All 14 RTPOs receive federal and state funds. This bill would force RTPOS to chose between completing Human Services Transportation plans and completing state activities.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Mike Burgess, Clark County.
CON: Lon Wyrick, Thurston Regional Planning Council, Executive Director; Bob Wilson, Whatcom Council of Governments; Kerri Woehler, Dept. of Transportation.