Transportation Lobby Lunch in Olympia

Rep. Jake Fey and Rep. Ed Orcutt

Representative's from the South Sound Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coalition attended an AWB Transportation Lobby Lunch in Olympia on Thursday to hear presentations from Rep. Ed Orcutt, ranking member of the House Transportation Committee and Rep. Jake Fey, member of the House Transportation Committee.  Each talked about the challenges of creating a transportation package and working across the isle to gain support for investing in our state's transportation infrastructure.  

The Transportation Package of 11 bills, Senate Bills 5987-5997, would pay for mega projects Including almost 1.9 billion for the SR167/SR509 Puget Sound Gateway project, ongoing maintenance, institute transportation project reforms and funded primarily by an 11.7-cent gas tax increase.

Both Rep. Orcutt and Rep. Fey seemed encouraged by the proposal, but emphasized that the package must pass the chamber before the House and Senate negotiations can begin. Luncheon guests questioned Rep. Orcutt and Rep. Fey on carbon emissions and prevailing wage issues, as well as current state litigation pertaining to culverts impacting fish and wildlife.

Our coalition is encouraged that a transportation package has been proposed but realize that our business advocacy must remain a priority for our chambers in order to support our state legislators in creating a viable transportation plan for Washington State's future.