Brief Description: Defining prohibited bus conduct.

Sponsors: Senators Esser, McCaslin, Oke, Roach, Eide, Kline and Rasmussen.

Hearing Date: 2/25/04

Staff: Jill Satran (786-7315).

Background:

A person is guilty of unlawful bus conduct if, while riding a municipal transit vehicle or at a municipal transit station, he or she:

•    smokes (except while at a transit station);

•    litters;

•    plays a stereo too loud without headphones;

•    spits;

•    carries flammable liquid, explosive or other harmful material;

•    intentionally obstructs the flow of municipal transit vehicles or passengers;

•    intentionally disturbs others; or

•    destroys or defaces municipal transit property.

Unlawful bus conduct is a misdemeanor, punishable by no more than 90 days in jail and/or a fine not more than $1000. "Municipal transit station" and "municipal transit vehicles" are defined, and do not include facilities or vehicles operated by a regional transit authority.

Summary of Bill:

The definitions of "municipal transit station" and "municipal transit vehicle" are amended to include facilities or vehicles operated by a regional transit authority. Unlawful bus conduct offenses apply to persons in facilities or vehicles operated by regional transit authorities.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.