SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1330

BYRepresentatives Walk, Schmidt, R. Meyers, Kremen, R. Fisher, Walker, Youngsman, S. Wilson, Winsley, Braddock, Brough, Raiter, Schoon, Pruitt and Spanel; by request of Director of County Road Administration Board

Changing provisions relating to ferry operation.

House Committe on Transportation

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):March 21, 1989; March 24, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Patterson, Chairman; Nelson, Vice Chairman; von Reichbauer, Vice Chairman; Barr, Bender, Conner, Hansen, McMullen, Madsen, Murray, Sellar, Thorsness.

Senate Staff:Gene Schlatter (786-7316)

                  March 24, 1989

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, MARCH 24, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Four counties (Whatcom, Skagit, Pierce and Wahkiakum) have ferry operations.  Over the last 10 years, each of these counties had at least one ferry project funded from federal highway trust fund totalling nearly $4 million.

Review by the Inspector General indicated county ferry systems using federal funds for construction projects must be free from tolls, except in the case of ferries whose operating authority and fares are under the control of a state agency.  The Federal Highway Administration has asked for reimbursement of the $4 million.

County ferries are required to be franchised by the state Department of Transportation in order to be eligible for federal funding, although none of the counties have made such application.

The Inspector General has agreed to drop the request for reimbursement, provided the counties apply for franchises.

SUMMARY:

The process for franchising county ferry systems by the Department of Transportation is simplified.  Definition of eligibility for federal funding of county docks and terminals is clarified.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Ernie Geissler, CRAB