SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6428

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 January 26, 2016

Title: An act relating to the freight mobility strategic investment board's authority to remove funding allocation for projects after a certain number of years without construction occurring.

Brief Description: Authorizing the freight mobility strategic investment board to remove funding allocation for projects after a certain number of years without construction occurring.

Sponsors: Senator King.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/25/16.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: The Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB) was created in 1998 and is comprised of 12 members appointed by the Governor. Members represent state, local, private, and other public interests involved in the movement of freight. When making appointments, the Governor must ensure each region of the state has representation. Based on criteria in current law, FMSIB evaluates freight project applications and awards funding to successful applicants.

Current law states that if a project has been allocated funding but is no longer ready to proceed, FMSIB must remove the project from consideration and retain that project's place on the priority list indefinitely.

Summary of Bill: If an FMSIB project has been allocated funding but is no longer ready to proceed, FMSIB must remove the project from consideration and retain that project's place on the priority list for six years. FMSIB may remove a project from consideration after six years if any of the following criteria are met:

A project removed for consideration after six years would have to submit a new application to FMSIB to be considered for funding again.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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: By law, if FMSIB awards a project funds and it is no longer ready to go, FMSIB cannot remove that project from their list. There are now multiple projects that are removed from consideration, unlikely to move forward but FMSIB cannot remove them from their list.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Ashley Probart, Executive Director, Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board.