SENATE BILL REPORT

ESB 5995

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 Passed Senate, February 27, 2015

Title: An act relating to modifying the transportation system policy goal of mobility.

Brief Description: Modifying the transportation system policy goal of mobility.

Sponsors: Senators King, Hobbs, Fain, Liias, Litzow, Braun, Schoesler, Parlette, Dammeier, Warnick, Sheldon, O'Ban, Becker, Brown and Bailey.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/17/15, 2/19/15 [DP].

Passed Senate: 2/27/15, 49-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators King, Chair; Hobbs, Ranking Minority Member; Liias, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Baumgartner, Cleveland, Habib, Jayapal, Litzow, Miloscia, Pedersen, Rivers and Sheldon.

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: Current state law includes the following six transportation policy goals: (1) economic vitality, (2) preservation, (3) safety, (4) mobility, (5) environment, and (6) stewardship. The goals are intended by the Legislature to serve as the basis for the planning, operation, performance of, and investment in, the state's transportation system. The goals are also intended to be the basis for establishing detailed and measurable objectives and related performance measures. Additionally, state transportation agencies must perform their duties in a manner consistent with the policy goals.

Summary of Engrossed Bill: The transportation policy goal of mobility is amended to include improving congestion relief and freight mobility. The bill takes effect only if SB 5987, concerning transportation revenue, is enacted by June 30, 2015.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on July 1, 2015.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill for the first time would add congestion relief and improving freight mobility to the state transportation goals. Adding them both in law would set the stage for helping with transportation needs in the south Sound and the rest of the state.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Larry Pursley, WA Trucking Assns.; Carolyn Logue, South Sound Chambers of Commerce Legislative Coalition.