SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6706

                    As of January 31, 2000

Title:  An act relating to the state patrol.

Brief Description:  Prohibiting the state patrol from using unmarked cars.

Sponsors:  Senators Benton, Heavey and Horn.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  1/31/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jennifer Ziegler (786-7316)

Background:  The Washington State Patrol has approximately 850 pursuit vehicles and 129 of those vehicles are unmarked.  The State Patrol replaces unmarked cars with marked cars as part of the 110,000 mile replacement process.  In the past, eight service officers per year have been awarded unmarked cars for achieving a district award for outstanding service.

Summary of Bill:  The State Patrol may not use unmarked cars when enforcing the traffic laws of Washington.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 27, 2000.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.