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HomeMy WebLinkAbout021525 - The WSTA WeeklyALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them. Registation Now Open, State Legislative, Update, Tracking the EOs, Committee Registation, From the Other Washington, Transit Jobs, and Transit News Vol. 10, Issue 6 February 15, 2025 View this email in your browser <https://mailchi.mp/bd4d69c9b255/the-wsta-weekly-17987813?e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/547fd40c-aaff-400e-270e-fce1bef58fce.png> Registration Now Open <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/748a01cb-244b-48d0-0410-166b659324fb.png> Presented by: <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/8449fb45-c89e-403e-9f69-2b92d575cd39.jpg> WSTA is pleased to open registration for our annual Spring Maintenance Forum. We bring the SMF back to beautiful downtown Spokane, WA, at the popular Davenport Grand Hotel. WSTA and the entire Maintenace and Facilities Committee thank Spokane Transit for being an amazing host. Last year's event was the highest-attended event in WSTA history, with nearly 100 attendees and nearly 50 vendors. For vendors wishing to attend, please be sure to review our website and vendor packet for all your questions. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e122182f76&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/91751ad1-3691-6b98-7ed8-6b868e46fb19.png> Week 6 Legislative Update By Mike Shaw - WSTA Lobbyist ________________________________ Week 5 comes to a close and Week 6 brings the first legislative deadline: the policy bill cutoff on February 21st. The fiscal committees will labor on for another week after, until February 28, and, due to the bleak budget outlook, a lot of bills will “die” for the session since there is no money to pay for bills with large fiscal notes. A few bills that have useful titles that may be necessary to implement the budget will be immune to these deadlines. There is a rumor that bills necessary to make budget cuts will be introduced in the coming weeks; bills that are necessary to implement the budget cutting process that the state agencies have done. At this point, there are 1,753 bills introduced. That’s also the year, 1753, that a young George Washington traveled to the Ohio Country to demand the French withdraw their forces from the region. We celebrate his birthday on February 17th, President’s Day, although his birthday is actually February 22nd. HB 1446 would change the name of the holiday from President’s Day to George Washington’s Birthday. Enjoy your holiday; I’ll be working. Last Thursday, the House Transportation Committee held a hearing on HB 1921, the road users charge (RUC) bill. Over 20,000 people signed up to have their position noted on the bill. WSTA’s Justin Leighton testified on the bill, which has an assessment that would help fund the multimodal account. The Senate Transportation Committee will take up the bill during Week 6, on Tuesday, February 18th. Regarding new bill introductions, on Valentines day, Rep. Rule introduced HB 1989, Concerning assaults committed against transit employees or contractors. Essentially, the bill expands the current class C felony for assaulting a transit operator, driver, or immediate supervisor, mechanic or security officer by deleting those references and inserting the words “or working to a contract with” a public or private transit company or a contracted transit service provider. Also this week, Rep. Zahn introduced HB 1980, allowing certain private employer transportation services to use certain public transportation facilities. It would allow private employer buses to use the transit-only lanes in King County if “local authorities” have established a permit process. Those interested in keeping up with the daily events of the session can so by watching Legislative Review, at www.tvw.org Labor & Commerce (Senate) - SHR 1 and Virtual J.A. Cherberg - 2/17 @ 10:30am SB 5422 - Public Hearing - Allowing bargaining over matters related to the use of artificial intelligence. (Remote Testimony Available). Transportation (House) - HHR B and Virtual JLOB - 2/17 @ 4:00pm HB 1902 - Public Hearing - Convening a work group regarding the streamlining of permitting for transportation projects. (Remote Testimony Available). Finance (House) - HHR A and Virtual JLOB - 2/18 @ 8:00am HB 1043 - Exec Session - Extending the commute trip reduction tax credit. Labor & Workplace Standards (House) - HHR D and Virtual JLOB - 2/18 @ 10:30am HB 1622 - Exec Session - Allowing bargaining over matters related to the use of artificial intelligence. Transportation (Senate) - SHR 1 and Virtual J.A. Cherberg - 2/18 @ 4:00pm SB 5726 - Public Hearing - Establishing new sources of transportation revenue based on motor vehicle use of public roadways. (Remote Testimony Available). Environment, Energy & Technology (Senate) - SHR 1 and Virtual J.A. Cherberg - 2/19 @ 8:00am SB 5630 - Public Hearing - Continuing to provide payments to support farm fuel users and transporters for exempt fuel under the Washington climate commitment act. (Remote Testimony Available). Transportation (House) - HHR B and Virtual JLOB - 2/19 @ 4:00pm HB 1774 - Exec Session - Modifying allowable terms for the lease of unused highway land. Environment & Energy (House) - HHR B and Virtual JLOB - 2/20 @ 8:00am HB 1550 - Exec Session - Improving the end-of-life management of electric vehicle batteries. HB 1912 - Exec Session - Concerning the exemption for fuels used for agricultural purposes in the climate commitment act. Labor & Commerce (Senate) - SHR 1 and Virtual J.A. Cherberg - 2/21 @ 8:00am SB 5422 - Exec Session - Allowing bargaining over matters related to the use of artificial intelligence. ________________________________ Washington State Transit Association 2025 Legislative Priorities Preserve, Maintain & Increase Public Transit Investments Incentivize Transition to Zero-Emission Fleets Support Safety and Security for Transit Employees and Customers Protect the Effective and Efficient Delivery of Public Transit To view in detail, CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c04f186f5a&e=7ccb4f03e2> With Questions regarding WSTA legislative priorities or advocacy efforts, please contact WSTA Executive Director Justin D. Leighton: justin@watransit.com <https://maassets.higherlogic.com/image/APTA/Executive_Action_Update_650x200_Final_3009955.png> Impacts of Executive Actions on Public Transportation: APTA Resources and Upcoming Webinar on Thursday, February 20 Since January 20, President Trump has issued almost 100 Executive Orders, Memoranda, and Proclamations to carry out his Administration’s policy goals and agenda. Many of these directives, together with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) actions, directly impact the public transportation industry. These Executive Orders and other directives pause some transportation funding; terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs; impose new tariffs; and establish priorities for DOT competitive grants. APTA’s Executive and Regulatory Actions Tracker <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=de9c528ae6&e=7ccb4f03e2> provides real-time updates and summaries regarding the President’s Executive Orders and other Administration actions that impact the public transportation industry. In addition, APTA will host a webinar on the first 30 days of the Administration <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=9390310d20&e=7ccb4f03e2> and discuss the impacts of Executive actions on public transportation agencies, funding, current projects, and more. The Impacts of Executive Actions on Public Transportation webinar <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=b78270b4b8&e=7ccb4f03e2> will be held on Thursday, February 20, at 3:00 pm ET. (APTA Members Only) <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7014c26613&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/27544fb0-86cb-4eb4-a6fb-8958be87599c.png> WSTA Spring Committee Season is here! Please don't forget to register now. WSTA 1st Quarter Board and Legislative Conference Feb. 24 & 25 | Olympia WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=15d1c0e393&e=7ccb4f03e2> Public Rideshare Committee Feb 27 & 28 | Wenatchee CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=4060a2149e&e=7ccb4f03e2> Clerks of the Authority Committee March 2 & 3 | Alderbrook Resort CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c58a21d110&e=7ccb4f03e2> Operations Committee March 5 - 7 | Lynwood, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7b534b0643&e=7ccb4f03e2> State Roadeo Steering Committee March 12 | Ellensburg, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=08cc5929da&e=7ccb4f03e2> Human Resource Roundtable Committee March 20 - 21 | Olmypia, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=a6d0f8916a&e=7ccb4f03e2> Finance Officers Leadership Committee March 26 | Walla Walla, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=432cd44a78&e=7ccb4f03e2> State Roadeo Steering Committee March 9 | Virtual CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=670d8ebc8c&e=7ccb4f03e2> Marketing & Communications April 16 & 17 | Vancouver, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=a47ead4fd3&e=7ccb4f03e2> TNLI Session 1 April 17 & 18 | Vancouver, WA CLICK HERE <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=10dd5bd964&e=7ccb4f03e2> TNLI Advanced April 28- 30 | Tulaliup Info Coming Soon <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=9a828df7d0&e=7ccb4f03e2> Spring Maintenance Forum Maintenance & Facilities Committee May 6- 8 | Spokane Coming Soon <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0e1bc22f03&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://mcusercontent.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/92c7b85f-59ef-784f-7669-38170c8ec978.png> Courts Order Administration to Unfreeze Federal Funds as Agencies Continue Reviewing Programs and Attempt to Amend or Cancel Some Agreements On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, a panel of three judges on the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an order <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=5a07 3727e2&e=7ccb4f03e2> and declined <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=675dfe7994&e=7ccb4f03e2> President Donald Trump’s request to halt a lower court’s order requiring the Administration to release billions of dollars in federal grants, loans, and financial assistance that had been frozen or paused. The appeals court’s refusal to stay the lower court’s order means the Trump Administration is instructed to comply with U.S. District Court Judge John McConnell’s Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and directive for the Administration to unfreeze all federal funds after his finding on Monday that the Administration had failed to comply with previous orders to date. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) had argued that the lower court’s order represented “intolerable judicial overreach,” but the appeals court disagreed, allowing the restoration of the funds to proceed. The Department further argued that “A single district court judge has attempted to wrest from the President the power to ‘take care that the laws be faithfully executed.’ This state of affairs cannot be allowed to persist for one more day.” Nevertheless, confusion and uncertainty continues as federal agencies review federal financial assistance programs. Agencies including the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have paused funds authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58) (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) (P.L. 117-169), per the directive of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order entitled “Unleashing American Energy <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=be3370d834&e=7ccb4f03e2> ” dated January 20, 2025. Most agencies continue to contend that any pauses involving federal grant administration, disbursement, or obligation are merely temporary to ensure grant compliance with relevant laws and alignment with new executive actions. Some agencies, however, are taking further action. We understand that some local government grant recipients have received formal orders from federal agencies instructing that they cease all grant activities supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Community Benefit Plans (CBPs), or Environmental Justice 40 (EJ40) initiatives that conflict with President Trump’s various Executive Orders. One example is the fact that the DOT Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) suspended <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=127068b6c9&e=7ccb4f03e2> its approvals of State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plans, which underpin uses of formula funding for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, and rescinded program guidance. That program was specifically referenced in the “Unleashing American Energy” Executive Order. A letter to State Department of Transportation Directors clarifies that “effective immediately, no new obligations may occur under the NEVI Formula Program until the updated final NEVI Formula Program Guidance is issued and new State plans are submitted and approved. […] Since FHWA is suspending the existing State plans, States will be held harmless for not implementing their existing plans. Until new guidance is issued, reimbursement of existing obligations will be allowed in order to not disrupt current financial commitments.” EPA is signaling a willingness to take proactive steps to terminate existing legal agreements with grantees. Earlier this week, Administrator Lee Zeldin released a statement contending that “the agency has found billions of taxpayer dollars parked at a financial institution by the Biden-Harris Administration.” The press release continued to read that “Administrator Zeldin is calling for termination of the financial agent agreement, and for the immediate return of the entire fund balance to the United States Treasury to ensure EPA oversight. Administrator Zeldin also announced that he will be referring this matter to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and Congress, and the agency will work with the U.S. Department of Justice.” Administrator Zeldin posted a video on X <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=6fb76a3bb5&e=7ccb4f03e2> explaining his concerns with the $20 billion worth of metaphorical “gold bars” or federal funding, apparently referencing, but not explicitly naming the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act and administered by the EPA. The funding had been awarded to eight organizations during the final months of the Biden-Harris Administration. In the video, Administrator Zeldin claimed that “The days of irresponsibly shoveling boatloads of cash to far-left activist groups in the name of environmental justice and climate equity are over.” Tensions between the legislative and executive branches over federal spending authority continue to escalate. In response to the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) January 27th memorandum (M-25-13 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=a34f98c82b&e=7ccb4f03e2> ) that was rescinded the next day, Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Patty Murray, Senate Budget Committee Ranking Member Jeffrey Merkley, and Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters have sought information from OMB Director Russell Vought. They issued <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=f05a6c8772&e=7ccb4f03e2> two letters – one <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=cf3e0c0a70&e=7ccb4f03e2> requesting a detailed account of impacted programs and another <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=dce14f9aef&e=7ccb4f03e2> inquiring about the memo’s authorship and legal basis. Meanwhile, House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro and Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur released <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c 3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=fe0dbf74f5&e=7ccb4f03e2> a series of fact sheets outlining the real-world consequences of the funding freeze, particularly how the pause at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is causing economic and security concerns. Against this backdrop, some lawmakers are focused on efforts to shift the balance of power over federal spending, demonstrating a willingness to abdicate the Congressional power of the purse and a key component of our federal system of checks and balances. Utah Senator Mike Lee reintroduced <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=174f4bce 5b&e=7ccb4f03e2> legislation (S. 515 <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=09d60f8c3c&e=7ccb4f03e2> ) to repeal the Congressional Budget Control and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (ICA) (P.L. 118-89), which restricts the President’s ability to unilaterally withhold or delay spending Congressionally appropriated funds. Senator Lee argued that repealing the ICA would restore constitutional authority to the Executive Branch, allowing the President to implement spending cuts without Congressional approval. A companion bill has been introduced <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=cdb09e8740&e=7ccb4f03e2> by Georgia Congressman Andrew Clyde in the House of Representatives. In his press release, the Senator framed the repeal as a necessary step to curb government spending, asserting, “Rolling back the unconstitutional Impoundment Control Act is one of the most effective ways Congress can help President Trump in the fight to deliver the spending cuts and government efficiency that the American people overwhelmingly voted for.” See a one-page summary <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=461b858964&e=7ccb4f03e2> of the measure for more information on this attempt to curtail the Legislative Branch’s power of the purse established in Article I of the United States Constitution. We understand that the federal government’s reconsideration of existing and pending financial and legal commitments will contribute to continued uncertainty for intergovernmental partners and other recipients of federal financial assistance. Please keep in touch about how these recent actions are impacting your constituents and your local operations or projects. Our team is happy to coordinate with your Congressional delegation to ensure that adverse impacts are clearly articulated and risks are understood. Appropriators Still Debating Approach to FY 2025 Spending Congressional leaders have not yet reached a consensus on how to proceed with Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 spending bills although the current Continuing Resolution (CR) expires March 14, 2025. Congressional appropriators remain engage in intense negotiations trying to reach a deal on a Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 spending bills; however, House Speaker Mike Johnson and some other GOP leaders may believe that a full-year CR may be the only solution. The likelihood of a full-year CR is increasing, despite many conservative lawmakers’ concerns with extending spending at current levels through the end of September. The process is further complicated by the budget reconciliation framework that House Republicans are pursuing, adding another layer of contention to the already fraught discussions. House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole underscored <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=b5a8638 f3d&e=7ccb4f03e2> the urgency of the moment, stating, “We continue to work to move topline discussions and cooperation forward. Progress has been made since the start of negotiations, and we remain engaged in good-faith discussions with the Senate and the minority. Quickly approaching deadlines remind us that shutdowns benefit no one, and I am steadfastly committed to finishing our work.” Some Beltway insiders are growing weary of the potential for a government shutdown in March, given the Executive Branch's approach to curtailing spending and Congressional Democrats’ reluctance to date toward helping their GOP counterparts navigate the complications of governing with slim majorities in both chambers. Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation * A new blog post <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=56a3a1f5f1&e=7ccb4f03e2> from Transportation for America (T4A) highlights the policy positions of Steven Gill Bradbury, President Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as the next Deputy Secretary of Transportation. Selected by the President for the role approximately one month ago, Mr. Bradbury served as General Counsel at the agency during the President’s first term. He also worked as the head of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) during the Bush Administration. As a Distinguished Fellow at the Heritage Foundation and an author of Project 2025’s chapter on transportation policy, the authors argue that Mr. Bradbury has “made clear his dislike of public transportation, clean energy reform, and pedestrian safety efforts.” He has proposed abolishing the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program and other federal discretionary programs that support new transit projects, improvements, and expansions. He has expressed opposition to regulations strengthening Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards to support electric vehicle (EV) expansion. He has also articulated a desire to abolish Vision Zero as federal policy and “‘refocus the FHWA on maintaining and improving the highway system.’” The piece concludes that, under Mr. Bradbury’s leadership, “we should expect to see USDOT either slow down or completely halt all grants for new transit projects…an assault on electrification overall, and every effort made to roll back any modest improvements on prioritizing safety.” * President Trump nominated <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=51a36422fe&e=7ccb4f03e2> Jonathan Morrison to serve as Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Mr. Morrison served as Chief Counsel at the agency during the President’s first term and Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs for the California New Car Dealers Association. He is now an executive at Apple. * Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a second slate of appointees who will serve at the agency under the Trump-Vance Administration. See the list of individuals <https://watransit.us12.lis t-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=88721eeefb&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Congress * As the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee works to develop the next surface transportation reauthorization, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit held <https://watransit.us12.list -manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=f7c0fc2020&e=7ccb4f03e2> a hearing <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7791f6772f&e=7ccb4f03e2> to review programs administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that address roadway safety. In his opening statement <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d7 6c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e66cd51c78&e=7ccb4f03e2> , Subcommittee Chair David Rouzer advocated in support of “reliable, consistent programming” such as Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) to address maintenance backlogs and ensure road safety standards; flexibility for state and local governments to implement their own programs that enhance safety in rural communities; adaptive pavement and guardrail standards for new vehicle technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs); and policies to improve work zone safety. Subcommittee Ranking Member Eleanor Hlmes Norton and Full Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen argued that the surface transportation reauthorization should “built upon the funding and policies in the” Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (PL 117-58), citing the positive impact of the HSIP Program, Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program, and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) programs to enhance driver safety. * A hearing <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c4be396a8c&e=7ccb4f03e2> of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security examined <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=4853c05729&e=7ccb4f03e2> China’s growing influence on ports in the western hemisphere. Subcommittee Chair Carlos Gimenez warned that the country’s growth in the sector provides the for the “opportunity to exert influence over commercial shipping, gather intelligence on American and allied vessel traffic…potentially restrict the mobility of our Navy in a time of crises,” and exacerbate “the illicit flow of goods including precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl.” Some lawmakers also cited a joint report <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=3b5f49e852&e=7ccb4f03e2> from the Homeland Security Committee and House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) describing how Chinese entities maintain financial stakes and operational control over terminals at large U.S. ports and could influence port operations through equipment manufacturing, potentially “creating additional vulnerabilities in America’s supply chains.” Direct Pay Congress * A group of 133 local officials from across the country urged lawmakers to maintain provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (PL 117-169) authorizing the elective payment of tax credits to state and local governments in support of clean energy projects, also known as Direct Pay, in any forthcoming tax legislation framework on Capitol Hill. In a letter <https://watransit.us12.list-m anage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1c18501398&e=7ccb4f03e2> to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, the local leaders argue that “repealing these clean energy tax credits could create economic uncertainty in our communities” and “upend countless energy projects and jobs across our country.” The letter cites a report <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=7a652f4eed&e=7ccb4f03e2> from E2 estimating that 85 percent of announced investments and 53 percent of new clean energy jobs stemming from the IRA have benefitted districts represented by Republican Members of Congress, who are leading the development of comprehensive tax legislation this year. <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/ea436c8d-6255-4572-b705-ffd9193ee521.png> Transit Job of the Week ________________________________ Deputy Chief of Operations Spokane Transit Salary Range: $124,441 – $166,762 The Deputy Chief of Operations is a senior management position responsible for the daily delivery of transit services and operational oversight of STA’s Fixed Route Transportation, ADA Paratransit, Rideshare program, and maintenance of vehicles and facilities. Reporting to and supporting the Chief Operations Officer (COO), this is a critical leadership position in the management of the Agency’s operational departments and ensuring efficient, reliable, safe, and secure transit operations. The position works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, providing operational input to service planning and supporting the successful implementation of capital projects once they become operational. The role oversees the maintenance and operation of a fleet of over four hundred vehicles, including buses, vans, non-revenue vehicles, and specialized equipment, along will all bus stops, shelters, stations, transit centers, and all other facility assets. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=de73979e85&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ ________________________________ WSTA Jobs Board: WSTA offers a comprehensive clearinghouse for transit jobs across the state. Use our website to see the latest job postings. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=2c41d6a153&e=7ccb4f03e2> If you are a transit agency and have an opening - please use the submit button on the website. Attention Transit Vendors Please sign up for the WSTA Vendor Email Distribution List to be the first to know. <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=2423ec8c7f&e=7ccb4f03e2> *If you are not a vendor please do not sign up <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/1877cd28-850f-4d18-987c-7fcdc524d617.png> <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/16fd6fee-3218-4d70-b1fe-2056df0f1434.gif> WSTA pays an annual membership to the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC), which allows our Transit Agency members access to their services. Check out what is new with MRSC. Available for WSTA Transit Members: Ask MRSC - Ask MRSC Archives <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=39836c36e3&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ Ask Transit WSTA's partn <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/d4f5e03c-25b5-4812-8415-e6065dfea42a.png> er, the Washington State Transit Insurance Pool (WSTIP), provides an "Ask Transit" tool, which allows agency employees to ask a question, and staff will work to research that question and respond back. . Click Here to Ask Transit <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=0eddacba29&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361/images/fb82d603-27ab-431a-ac10-5225f4a43f6c.png> Light "Transit" News Week: * Beginning March 1, Community Transit to reduce some fares <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=e2b43388f4&e=7ccb4f03e2> . Everett Herald (pdf included) * Sound Transit Seeks Community Input on Long-Awaited Graham Street Station <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=ad9c394c6b&e=7ccb4f03e2> . South Seattle Emerald ________________________________ * Passenger Transport <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1031a29313&e=7ccb4f03e2> Latest Issue <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6 c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1d90126a8f&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Metro Magazine News <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=b891f9809a&e=7ccb4f03e2> * National RTAP <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=86930c4489&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Transit Talent <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=5303ef8f70&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Voices of Public Transportation <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=78445cec91&e=7ccb4f03e2> * T4America <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=cc71b89772&e=7ccb4f03e2> * CTAA News <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c1ec360ead&e=7ccb4f03e2> * Shared-Use Mobility Center <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=1262d19f73&e=7ccb4f03e2> ________________________________ <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c4ed3fdb46&e=7ccb4f03e2> <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=42ac41b201&e=7ccb4f03e2> <mailto:justin@watransit.com> <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c59e5d6cca&e=7ccb4f03e2> Copyright © WSTA, 2016, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 2629 12th Court SW Olympia, WA 98502 Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/profile?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c7c0e5ee8e&e=7ccb4f03e2&c=50b7a462d8> or unsubscribe from this list <https://watransit. us12.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=c7c0e5ee8e&t=b&e=7ccb4f03e2&c=50b7a462d8>  ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ <https://watransit.us12.list-manage.com/track/open.php?u=6c70c3a1d76c22fe2ef2a8361&id=50b7a462d8&e=7ccb4f03e2>