Official Text and Analysis.

Increases the number of 144-auto ferries, which may be purchased via a modification to an existing option contract from two to five, and the total number of 144-auto ferries from six to nine. (2) Requires a new modification to an existing option contract for each additional ferry. (3) Eliminates language requiring the Transportation Commission to adopt a specific increase to the vessel replacement surcharge. (4) Requires the Transportation Commission to impose an additional vessel replacement surcharge beginning May 1, 2020. The amount of revenue must be sufficient to fund the 25-year debt service on one 144-auto ferry taking into account funds provided by HB 1789 or SSB 5419 (service fees).

Strikes the authority for the Washington State Department of Transportation to modify an existing option contract executed prior to July 6, 2015, to allow for the purchase of up to five additional 144-auto ferries. Authorizes WSDOT to issue a new request for proposals to competitively bid the design and construction of five additional 144-auto ferries.