Two bills scheduled for hearing this week propose changes to the state’s transportation system policy goals—one to prioritize preservation and safety, and the other to include health.

HB 2285, sponsored by Rep. Bob McCaslin (R–Spokane Valley), would make preservation and safety the preeminent state transportation goals. HB 2461, sponsored by Rep. Marcus Riccelli (D–Spokane), would add health to the state’s transportation policy goals.

The state’s transportation policy goals provide the basis for a set of objective measures that apply to state transportation agencies. The state’s current goals are economic vitality, preservation, safety, mobility, environment, and stewardship, in that order. The Office of Financial Management submits a report to the Legislature every two years detailing the state’s performance in relation to these goals.

Dates to remember

HB 2285 and HB 2461 will be heard in the House Transportation Committee at 3:30 pm on Tuesday, January 22.