OLYMPIA – Many Washingtonians rely on public transportation every day to get to school, work, and other essential activities. Wednesday, the Washington State House of Representatives passed House Bill 1418, to create a way for those transit users to have more voice in decisions about public transit. The bill would allow public transportation benefit areas the option to add two new members that use transit services to their governing boards.
“It’s important that transit users have a seat at the table to help make decisions about local transit services,” said Rep. Joe Timmons, D-Bellingham, the prime sponsor of the bill. “Community members that regularly use transit have a level of expertise and lived experience that may help inform and enhance the decision-making process and improve local services for folks that really depend on them.”
The bill would be voluntary and a local decision whether to implement. If enacted, this bill would take effect on Jan.1, 2026.
House Bill 1418 now heads to the Senate for consideration after receiving bipartisan approval with a 64-33 vote. The 105-day legislative session is scheduled to end on April 27.