CA SB356

Amends Public Utilities Code to expand the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit District's duties and powers to own, operate, manage, and maintain both passenger and freight rail systems within the district.

Grants the district's board of directors authority to fix rates, rentals, charges, and classifications for rail transit and freight service operated by the district.

Requires the board to consider potential alternatives to help address housing needs of current and future employees.

Repeals Section 105180 of the Public Utilities Code, which previously required the district to obtain federal law coverage for itself and its employees.

Provides that if the Commission on State Mandates determines the bill imposes state-mandated costs on local agencies, reimbursement shall be made pursuant to existing statutory procedures.