The bill amends RCW 36.57A.050 to enhance the governance structure of public transportation benefit areas in Washington by adding two voting members who are transit users to the governing body. Specifically, it stipulates that in addition to the existing elected official members, there will be two appointed transit-using voting members: one who primarily relies on public transportation and another who represents an organization serving transit-dependent individuals. If no such organization is available, a second member who meets the first criterion must be appointed. The bill also establishes that meetings of the governing body must be held at accessible times and locations for transit users.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the maximum number of voting members on the governing body, increasing it from nine to eleven for single-county areas and from fifteen to seventeen for multi-county areas. It also updates compensation provisions for members, allowing for reimbursement of travel expenses and per diem compensation, which can be adjusted for inflation every five years. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 36.57A.050