The bill establishes the Washington State Commercial Truck Safety and Education Council, aimed at enhancing roadway safety and improving the commercial trucking industry through public-private initiatives. The council will focus on analyzing crash trends, implementing evidence-based best practices in driver education, regulatory compliance, and industry training. It will consist of members appointed by the governor, including representatives from various state departments and the trucking industry, and will meet quarterly to discuss and develop programs that promote safety and efficiency in trucking operations.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 46.17.315 to increase the commercial vehicle safety enforcement fee from $16 to $32, with the funds being allocated to both the state patrol highway account and a newly created Commercial Truck Safety and Education Account. This account will be used exclusively for activities related to commercial vehicle safety and training, with expenditures authorized by the director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. The council is also granted the authority to solicit funds and enter into agreements to support its objectives, while ensuring confidentiality for sensitive information gathered during its operations.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 46.17.315