The bill seeks to correct nonsubstantive drafting errors in Washington state law following the enactment of chapter 182, Laws of 2022, which focused on transportation resources. It amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), including RCW 81.104.170 and RCW 81.104.175, to introduce the Sandy Williams connecting communities program aimed at enhancing active transportation safety and connectivity, particularly for vulnerable populations. Key insertions include the establishment of a statewide school-based bicycle education grant program and a requirement for regional transit authorities to implement a zero-fare policy for young passengers to qualify for state grant funds. The bill also addresses the treasury income account, introducing the JUDY transportation future funding program account as a new recipient of earnings, and clarifies the distribution of these earnings. Additionally, the bill amends definitions related to transportation, including "Active transportation," "Complete streets," and "Safe system approach," to enhance safety and accessibility for all users. It establishes a transit support grant program that requires eligible transit agencies to adopt a zero-fare policy for passengers aged 18 and under while adhering to equity and environmental justice principles. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Interagency Electric Vehicle Coordinating Council in developing a statewide transportation electrification strategy. Other provisions include retroactive applicability, recodification of certain sections, and expiration dates for specific sections of the act, ensuring that the legislative intent is met and that the transportation framework in Washington state is improved.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 81.104.170, 81.104.175, 47.04.380, 47.04.390, 46.68.480, 43.84.092
Substitute Bill: 81.104.170, 81.104.175, 47.04.380, 47.04.390, 46.68.480, 43.84.092, 47.66.140, 43.392.040