SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5490

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Transportation, February 4, 2015

Title: An act relating to border area transportation benefit districts.

Brief Description: Modifying the use of motor vehicle and special fuel tax proceeds by border area transportation benefit districts.

Sponsors: Senators Ericksen, Hobbs, King and Ranker.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/03/15, 2/04/15 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators King, Chair; Fain, Vice Chair; Hobbs, Ranking Minority Member; Liias, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Cleveland, Habib, Jayapal, Pedersen and Rivers.

Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)

Background: Cities, towns, and transportation benefit districts within ten miles of an international border crossing are authorized to impose a motor vehicle fuel tax of up to $0.01 per gallon if approved by a majority of the voters in the jurisdiction. The fuel tax must be collected by the local jurisdiction and may be used for street maintenance and construction.

Summary of Bill: The uses of the proceeds from the border area fuel tax are expanded to include other transportation improvements, including high capacity transportation, public transportation, and the operation of facilities or programs.

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: This will allow Point Roberts to use their local fuel tax to pay for an additional bus that will take school children to after-school activities.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Tom Parker, Whatcom Council of Governments.