This bill amends RCW 36.57A.050 to enhance the representation structure within public transportation benefit areas in Washington State. It introduces a new section that allows for a more equitable distribution of board representation based on community recommendations, addressing issues that arose from a 2025 change in state law. The bill specifies that in counties with populations over 400,000, the elected officials on the governing body must be selected to ensure proportional representation of component cities and unincorporated areas, with a maximum of three representatives from any single county or city. Additionally, it establishes provisions for appointing transit-using voting members to the governing body, ensuring their meetings are accessible by public transportation.

Furthermore, the bill repeals RCW 47.66.170, which pertains to public transportation benefit area grant program eligibility, and declares an emergency for the immediate implementation of these changes. The amendments also include provisions for adjusting per diem compensation for authority members based on inflation and outline the eligibility for reimbursement of travel expenses. The overall aim of the bill is to improve governance and representation in public transportation benefit areas, ensuring that community voices are adequately represented in decision-making processes.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 36.57A.050, 47.66.170