Could we see Expedia.com Narrows Bridge or the Amazon.com State Highway 16 in the future. We could, if a bill that would allow naming rights for roads, bridges and other transportation facilities is passed.

House Bill 105l, co-sponsored by State Rep. Jan Angel (R-Port Orchard), was would authorize the naming rights to state transportation facilities was scheduled for Jan. 22 to be heard by the House Transportation Committee.

The bill by Angel and Rep. Linda Kochmar (R-Federal Way), which was introduced Jan. 14, would use money from the naming rights to pay for going operations and maintenance, and to fund future capital needs of facilities.

“We need some flexibility with creating state revenue,” Angel said. “The state, along with counties and cities, need to take care of their assets.”

Also, the bill would put the Washington State Transportation Commission, which is in charge of naming things like ferries, in charge of selling naming rights.

Under the bill, state transportation facilities including highways, bridges, rest areas and viewpoints areas could be named or renamed.

After final action is taken, the state Department of Transportation would design and install appropriate signage according to state and federal standards.

HB 1051 states that names can’t be obscene, indecent, discriminatory, religious, political, and or names that promote tobacco, marijuana or illegal drugs. Names of films rated “X” or “NC-17” and video games rated “A” or “M” can’t be used, along with names dealing with adult content or adult entertainment.

This is not the first time Angel has brought up the matter of naming rights.

Last year, the District 26 legislator looking into the issue — especially for the Narrow Bridge to keep toll fares low.

Angel said she came up with the idea will a Kitsap County commissioners. The county sold the naming rights of the fairground pavilion to the Kitsap Sun.

Contact Port Orchard Independent Editor Dannie Oliveaux at doliveaux@portorchardindependent.com or 360 876 4414 Ext 5050.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.