BILL REQ. #:  S-0668.1 

Read first time 01/28/09.   Referred to Committee on Transportation.

     AN ACT Relating to improving traffic flagger safety; adding a new section to chapter 47.36 RCW; creating a new section; making an appropriation; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature intends to promote innovative approaches to improving highway safety and protecting both the traveling public and highway workers. Technological advances have made it possible for electronic traffic flagging devices to be used on highways in a manor that reduces highway worker exposure to vehicular traffic. The legislature intends for the department of transportation to pilot the use of electronic traffic flagging devices and consider increased use of these devices.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 47.36 RCW to read as follows:
     The department shall initiate a pilot project to evaluate the benefits of using electronic traffic flagging devices. Electronic traffic flagging devices must be tested by the department at multiple sites and reviewed for efficiency and safety. The department shall report to the transportation committees of the legislature on the best use and practices involving electronic traffic flagging devices, including recommendations for future use, by June 30, 2010.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   The sum of one hundred thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, is appropriated for the biennium ending June 30, 2011, from the motor vehicle account to the department of transportation for the purposes of this act.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 4   This act expires December 31, 2010.