The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to county ferry district authority, specifically RCW 36.54.120, 36.54.130, and 36.54.135, as well as reenacting and amending RCW 47.60.120. Key changes include the removal of the term "passenger-only" from references to ferries and wharves, allowing ferry districts to operate a broader range of ferry services. Additionally, the bill adjusts the maximum ad valorem tax rate that ferry districts can levy, setting it at 75 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, with a reduced rate of 7.5 cents per $1,000 for districts in counties with populations of 1,500,000 or more.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the distance restrictions for ferry crossings and toll bridges over Puget Sound, maintaining a 10-mile limit and allowing for waivers under certain conditions. It also emphasizes that the Washington utilities and transportation commission can grant waivers from this restriction, considering factors such as transportation congestion and air quality. The bill ensures that existing franchises are respected and that the operation of passenger-only ferry services by public transportation benefit areas is exempt from these restrictions.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 36.54.120, 36.54.130, 36.54.135
Substitute bill: 36.54.120, 36.54.130, 36.54.135