SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6331
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 1, 2012
Title: An act relating to authorizing public transit agencies to provide a bidding preference to bidders who exceed "Buy America" requirements applicable to federally funded transit projects.
Brief Description: Authorizing public transit agencies to provide a bidding preference to bidders who exceed "Buy America" requirements applicable to federally funded transit projects.
Sponsors: Senators Conway, Chase, Benton, Rolfes, Nelson, Kohl-Welles, Hobbs, Harper and Kline.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/01/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)
Background: Buy America is the term commonly used when referring to various federal laws that require assembly of a product in the United States (U.S.) and a certain amount of a projects components to be made in the U.S. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires 100 percent of a project to be U.S. made, except that rolling stock, such as buses, must have more than 60 percent of the cost of all components and subcomponents to be of domestic origin with final assembly to be in the U.S. FTA Buy America requirements must be met if a project is funded in part or whole with FTA funds. The FTA allows states to impose stricter Buy America requirements if those requirements are in state law.
Summary of Bill: When FTA funds are involved, public transit agencies may include a bidding preference in their bidding process for applicants who exceed Buy America standards.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill allows the option to invest in Washington and other contractors. Foreign steel does not compete with U.S. steel. This is also a national security issue. We may only be half way through this recession and this bill will help U.S. manufacturing. Using public funds to Buy America is a great way to stimulate the economy. This is a jobs bill.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Sharon Ness, UFCW WA State Labor Council; Terry Tilton, WA Building & Construction Trades Council; Rebecca Johnson, WSLC.