The bill establishes an omnibus transportation budget for the state of Washington, appropriating funds from various accounts to support employee compensation, capital projects, and other specified purposes through June 30, 2027. It commits to maintaining funding levels as outlined in the LEAP Transportation Document NL-2025-A through fiscal year 2031. Key appropriations include $1,186,000 for the State Parks and Recreation Commission, $3,700,000 for the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, and $83,700,000 for the Department of Transportation's highway maintenance program, which includes provisions for maintenance activities during the 2026 World Cup. The bill emphasizes enhancing transportation safety, efficiency, and accessibility, particularly for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Additionally, the bill amends RCW 47.60.322 to create a capital vessel replacement account within the motor vehicle account, funded by a vessel replacement surcharge and service fees. This account is designated for the construction or purchase of ferry vessels, specifically those with a carrying capacity of at least 144 cars, replacing the previous wording of "one hundred forty-four" cars. The bill also allows for transfers from the highway safety fund to the Move Ahead WA account during the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium and emphasizes tribal consultation for certain projects. It includes a clause ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remainder will still be effective, and it is deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, taking effect immediately upon passage.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 46.68.510, 43.43.386
Substitute Bill: 46.68.060, 47.60.322