The bill revises the responsibilities of the Washington State Transportation Commission by introducing new functions aimed at improving the statewide transportation system. Key provisions include the commission's duty to propose policies for safe and efficient transportation services, ensure public involvement in planning, and conduct studies as directed by the legislature or governor. A new section is added to align the commission's policies with established goals such as preservation, safety, mobility, economic vitality, and environmental considerations. The bill also amends the commission's composition to include nonvoting members representing various transportation interests, enhancing public involvement and balanced representation.

Additionally, the bill amends laws related to the development of port elements by cities and ports, allowing for planning flexibility and ensuring consistency with the port comprehensive scheme. It outlines approaches for cities to develop these elements, such as creating port overlay districts and establishing joint transportation funding agreements. The bill mandates that planned improvements be submitted to the department of transportation for inclusion in the statewide multimodal transportation plan. It also revises the investment program terminology from "ten-year" to "10-year," establishes minimum standards for regional transportation planning, and repeals outdated sections of law to streamline transportation planning and investment processes.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 47.01.071, 47.04.280, 47.06.020, 47.80.060, 47.26.170, 47.01.250, 47.12.330, 47.06.040
Substitute bill: 47.01.051, 47.04.280, 47.06.020, 47.26.170, 47.01.250, 47.12.330, 47.06.040, 36.70A.085, 47.05.030