SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6025

BYSenator Nelson

Limiting transit and carpool lane restrictions.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 26, 1988

Senate Staff:Gene Baxstrom (786-7303)

AS OF JANUARY 26, 1988

BACKGROUND:

In 1974, the Legislature authorized the Department of Transportation and local authorities to reserve all or part of any highway for the preferential use of public transportation vehicles or private motor vehicles carrying no fewer than a specified number of passengers when the restriction will either increase the efficient utilization of the highway or aid in energy conservation.

The respective authorities were given the discretion to determine the minimum number of passengers as well as the times of day that the regulations would be effective. Current Department policy restricts the use of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes to public transportation vehicles and private motor vehicles carrying no fewer than three persons.  Two person vehicles are allowed to use HOV lanes along portions of I-405 while the HOV system is being constructed.  The lanes are restricted to such use at all times.

The Administrative Procedure Act specifically exempts from the rule-making process traffic restrictions provided notice of such restrictions is given by official traffic control devices.

SUMMARY:

The preferential use of public highways for High Occupancy Vehicles is restricted to peak traffic hours only.  These times are required to be conspicuously posted along the reserved portions of the highway.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested