issue area reports | infrastructure
Rep . Andrew Barkis , R-Olympia , is ranking minority member of the House Transportation Committee .
SHB 1706 truck driver restrooms
Passed / AWB Supported
Sponsored by Rep . Mike Sells , D-Everett , Substitute House Bill 1706 requires port terminal operators to provide restrooms for truck drivers . The bill also directs the Department of Health and Labor and Industries to enforce the provision . This bill was brought forward by a drayage truck driver who testified that port facilities do not provide adequate restroom facilities for drivers while on the port grounds . The original bill included all retail establishments , but current law already requires businesses to provide restroom use to customers , which includes truck drivers . SHB 1706 passed both chambers nearly unanimously .
SSB 5528 enhanced service zones
Passed / AWB Neutral
Sponsored by Sen . Jamie Pedersen , D-Seattle , Substitute Senate Bill 5528 allows Sound Transit to create and seek voter authority to fund enhanced service zones . Sound Transit may create zones within its larger jurisdiction to fund additional transit improvements within that zone . Voters in the zone must approve funding for the new service through either a commercial parking tax or an additional motor vehicle excise tax ( MVET ). The bill also requires Sound Transit to meet certain planning requirements in creation of any enhanced service zone . SSB 5528 passed the House by a vote of 50-48 and the Senate by a vote of 29-18 .
ESSB 5065 rail labor
Failed / AWB Opposed
Sponsored by Sen . Patty Kuderer , D-Bellevue , Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5065 would have established a family , medical , and bereavement leave program for railroad workers . This bill would circumvent the collective bargaining agreements between railroads and rail labor unions at both the national and local levels . This bill would also create a unique set of regulations in a national system that would impact traffic management of railroad operations across state lines , causing higher costs and delays . Washington ’ s trade-driven sectors — agriculture , natural resources , aerospace , port and maritime activities — would bear these costs and suffer time
Bill considered as part of AWB ’ s voting record
Favorable outcome for Washington businesses
Missed Opportunities
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