The bill focuses on transportation funding and appropriations for the state of Washington for the fiscal biennium of 2025-2027, allocating significant resources to various state agencies and programs. It introduces new sections that specify appropriations for departments such as the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, the Utilities and Transportation Commission, and the Department of Ecology, with a total funding amount of approximately $3.3 billion. The bill emphasizes environmental initiatives, including funding for zero-emission vehicle infrastructure and mandates reporting requirements to ensure accountability in the use of funds, particularly regarding carbon emissions and diversity in transportation contracting. Additionally, it establishes a voucher incentive program for zero-emission vehicles and allocates funds for various transportation projects, including the I-5 Columbia River bridge replacement and improvements to public transportation services.
Significant changes in appropriations are noted throughout the bill, including reductions in the Carbon Emissions Reduction Account and the Electric Vehicle Account, while increasing allocations for other projects such as the Puget Sound Capital Construction Account. The bill also introduces provisions for managing transportation funds when the legislature is not in session, allowing for flexibility in transferring appropriations among projects. New legal language is inserted to enhance transparency and accountability in transportation funding and operations, ensuring effective collaboration among state agencies and local partners. Overall, the bill aims to improve transportation infrastructure, promote environmental sustainability, and support community needs through targeted funding and program initiatives.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 43.19.642, 46.20.745, 46.20.385, 46.68.063, 46.68.290, 46.68.300, 46.68.370, 46.68.395, 46.68.490, 46.68.500, 46.68.510, 47.56.876, 47.60.315, 47.60.322, 47.60.530, 47.66.120, 47.68.090, 70A.65.240, 46.68.520, 46.68.280, 82.21.030
Substitute Bill: 14.40.020, 43.19.642, 46.20.745, 46.20.385, 46.68.063, 46.68.290, 46.68.300, 46.68.320, 46.68.370, 46.68.395, 46.68.490, 46.68.500, 46.68.510, 47.56.876, 47.60.315, 47.60.322, 47.60.530, 47.66.120, 46.68.280, 82.44.200, 82.70.020, 82.70.040, 82.70.900, 47.04.390