Bill > SB5760

This bill aims to address vessel procurement at the Washington state ferries. It allows the department to contract for the acquisition of up to five new hybrid diesel-electric ferry vessels that can carry up to 144 vehicles, using a one or two contract procurement approach to potentially accelerate vessel delivery. The bill exempts these contracts from certain requirements and allows the department to use various procurement methods, including design-build, design-bid-build, or lease with an option to buy. The department must employ third-party experts to provide project oversight and report on schedule, risks, and budget. The bill also makes some amendments to existing laws related to ferry system operations and procurement. The bill is declared as an emergency measure, indicating the immediate need to procure new vessels for the state's vital ferry transportation system.