SB 5340-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 1/21/00)

     Declares an intent that this act clarify certain authorities of employees of the Washington utilities and transportation commission.

     Finds that this act is necessary to ensure the continuance of existing safety inspection programs.

     Does not create a new program or authorize new authority, and will not result in the expansion of the existing program.

     Declares that a commission employee certified by the federal railroad administration to perform hazardous materials inspections may enter the property of any business that receives, ships, or offers for shipment hazardous materials by rail, or that manufactures, marks, maintains, reconditions, repairs, or tests containers that are represented, marked, certified, or sold for use in the transportation of hazardous materials by rail.  Entry shall be at a reasonable time and in a reasonable manner.  The purpose of such entry is limited to performing inspections, investigations, or surveillance of facilities, equipment, records, and operations relating to the packaging, loading, or transportation of hazardous materials by rail, pursuant only to the state participation program outlined in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.  The term "business" is all inclusive and is not limited to common carriers or public service companies.