Authorizes the Washington State Department of Transportation to modify an existing option contract executed prior to July 6, 2015, to allow for the purchase of up to five additional 144-auto ferry vessels, for a total of nine 144-auto ferry vessels, including the four Olympic-class vessels already delivered.
Creates the Small Business Enforceable Goals Program to increase small business participation in ferry vessel procurement.
Limits the use of vessel replacement surcharges to the construction or purchase of ferry vessels and debt service authorized for the construction or purchase of ferry vessels.
Requires a modification to an existing option contract for each additional ferry.
Requires the Transportation Commission to impose an additional vessel replacement surcharge beginning May 1, 2020, in an amount sufficient to fund one 144-auto ferry, taking into account revenue from increases to vehicle transaction service fees.
Prohibits the Commission from imposing an additional vessel replacement surcharge if it would increase ferry fares by more than 10 percent.
From the Engrossed Substitute House Bill Report (ESHB 2161), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗