SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6398

BYSenators Barr and Rasmussen

Prohibiting use of salt on state highways.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 5, 1988

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6398 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Patterson, Chairman; von Reichbauer, Vice Chairman; Barr, Bender, McMullen, Metcalf, Owen, Sellar.

Senate Staff:Robin Rettew (786-7306)

                  February 5, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, FEBRUARY 5, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) currently uses about 6,200 tons of salt per biennium at a cost of roughly $45.00 per ton. Salt is only used when it is essential to melt the ice and/or when sand is not adequate to insure safe roads.

SUMMARY:

The WSDOT is prohibited from using salt or any deicing chemical containing salt on state highways.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The Department of Transportation is allowed to use salt with a corrosive inhibitor for research and experimental purposes.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Dennis Ingham (against); Gary Demich (against)