SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6434

BYSenators Bender and Metcalf

Establishing a bicycle awareness program.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 2, 1990

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6434 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Patterson, Chairman; von Reichbauer, Vice Chairman; Barr, Bender, Benitz, DeJarnatt, McMullen, Madsen, Murray.

Senate Staff:Brad Lovaas (786-7307)

                  February 2, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, FEBRUARY 2, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Bicycling is increasing in popularity as a form of recreation and as an alternative mode of transportation.

In 1987, the number of children aged 1-14 killed in bicycle accidents was seven, with 751 injured.  In 1988, there were seven killed and 599 injured.

The Washington State Patrol's safety education section teaches bicycle safety as part of its "Trooper Bob" program.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) provides funding for bicycle paths and wider roadway shoulders by dedicating 3/10 of 1 percent of all new construction project dollars.  The DOT also provides staff support for the Washington State Bicycle Advisory Committee.

SUMMARY:

A bicycle awareness program is created within the Washington State Patrol.  This new program will become a component of the existing safety education officer program.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The original bill is amended to allow the Washington State Patrol's Safety Education Officer Program to use volunteers.  In addition, a provision is added which allows motor vehicle drivers and bicyclists to use electronic devices as long as they can hear sounds with one ear.

The appropriation of $250,000 from the public safety education account is deleted.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Senator Warnke; Amy Rayborn, Jeremiah Bigelow, Ann Garrett, Mukilteo Elementary; Tim Erickson, Washington State Patrol; Ilene Kastere, Department of Health; Gerald Van Noy, Department of Social and Health Services; Don Lund, Department of Transportation; Jane Abraham, Bicycle Federation of Washington; Dale Carlson, Jim Lazar, Sprocketman; Chuck Hayes, Traffic Safety Commission