Brief Description: Studying toll discounts.

Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Green, Kilmer, Woods, Flannigan, Campbell, Lantz, Williams, Hunt, Darneille, Kirby, Chase, Eickmeyer and Conway.

Hearing Date: 2/24/05

Staff: Gary Lebow (786-7304).

Background:

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge toll project is authorized in 47.46 RCW. A citizen advisory committee is required for each project developed under 47.46 RCW. The 9 committee members are appointed by the Governor and must be permanent residents of the affected project area. The advisory committee advises the transportation commission, the toll setting authority, on all matters relating to the setting of tolls. No toll charge may be imposed or modified unless the advisory committee has been given at least twenty days to review and comment on the proposed toll schedule.

The project is currently under construction and is scheduled to begin collecting tolls in April, 2007. The members of the citizen advisory committee have not been appointed at this time.

Summary of Bill:

The department of transportation is directed to conduct a study on the feasibility of offering tolls to frequent users, senior citizens, students and low-income families. The study is due to the transportation committees of the legislature by June 30, 2006.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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