Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1307
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. |
Brief Description: Authorizing local authorities to establish dual speed limits.
Sponsors: Representatives Shea, Schmick, Kretz, Short, Taylor and Condotta.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/6/17
Staff: Mark Matteson (786-7145).
Background:
State law establishes speed limits on all roads in the state. These limits depend upon the type of road being limited—city streets, county roads, or state highways. On city streets, the limit is set at 25 miles per hour (mph). On county roads, the limit is set at 50 mph. Finally, on state highways, the limit is set at 60 mph.
Local jurisdictions may either increase or decrease the default speed limits, although in no case may the local jurisdiction increase the limit above 60 mph. In general, a local jurisdiction must undertake an engineering and traffic investigation before making such a change. An exception is allowed to cities or towns seeking to establish a maximum speed limit of 20 mph on a nonarterial highway or portion of nonarterial highway that passes through a residence district or business district. Such a change may be made if the city or town has developed alternate procedures regarding the establishment of maximum speed limits for such portions of nonarterial highways.
Local jurisdictions are also authorized to establish different speed limits for:
different times of day;
different types of vehicles;
varying weather conditions; and
other factors that have a bearing on safe speeds.
An altered speed limit is effective when the appropriate signs are erected; however, any alteration on a state highway must be approved by the Secretary of the Department of Transportation before going into effect.
Summary of Bill:
A local government may establish by ordinance dual speed limits by use within the jurisdiction.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested February 5, 2017.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.