Committee approves drafting SB 9 to support commuters and microtransit pilot expansion

Chair (name not specified) introduced item 4 as a proposed committee-drafted bill, describing SB 9 as "an act supporting commuters and microtransit services." The chair said microtransit pilots across the state have produced promising data and cited benefits including first-mile/last-mile service, connections to rail and bus stops, help getting seniors to appointments, and expanded mobility for people with disabilities.

Representative Berger de Veil moved to draft SB 9 as a committee bill and Representative Kennedy seconded the motion. The committee approved the drafting by voice vote; the chair recorded the ayes and announced the motion passed.

The committee did not adopt final bill text at this meeting. The action authorizes staff to draft language for SB 9 and to set the item for a public hearing as part of the committee's near-term schedule. The chair said further substance will be developed when the draft is circulated prior to the public hearing.