SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5227

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 January 30, 2017

Title: An act relating to requiring drivers to stop for approaching other on-track equipment at railroad grade crossings.

Brief Description: Requiring drivers to stop for approaching other on-track equipment at railroad grade crossings.

Sponsors: Senators King, Hobbs, Hasegawa, Saldaña and Kuderer.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/30/17.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires on-road vehicles to stop at railroad crossings for on-track equipment.

  • Requires areas near railroad crossings be kept clear in order for drivers to see any approaching on-track equipment.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Hayley Gamble (786-7452)

Background: Current law requires drivers of vehicles on the road to stop at railroad crossings for trains and signals that indicate the approach of a train. Current law also requires counties, the Department of Transportation, and railroad companies to keep their respective rights-of-way clear of brush and timber near railroad crossings in order for drivers of vehicles on the road to clearly see approaching trains.

Summary of Bill: Statutes requiring drivers on the road to stop at railroad crossings for trains, or signals that indicates the approach of a train, are modified to also require drivers to stop for other on-track equipment.

Counties, the Department of Transportation, and railroad companies are required to keep their respective rights-of-way clear of brush and timber near railroad crossing in order for drivers of vehicles on the road to clearly see approaching on-track equipment.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill recognizes that there is equipment other than trains on the railway. We need to update our statutes to reflect this.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Curtis King, Prime Sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.