HB 1789-S - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/11/99)

     Recognizes that there are residents of this state who intentionally register motor vehicles in other states to evade payment of taxes and fees required by the laws of this state.  This results in a substantial loss of revenue to the state.

     Declares an intent to decriminalize license fraud and impose stronger civil penalties upon residents who defraud the state, thereby enhancing compliance with state registration laws and increasing state revenues.  To further enhance enforcement and collection efforts, the legislature intends to create a license fraud task force within the Washington state patrol.