Brief Description: Permitting roadside tire chain businesses.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Mulliken, Kastama, Benson, Oke, Esser, Berkey and Sheldon; by request of Department of Transportation).

Hearing Date: 2/15/06

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

During certain weather conditions involving ice and snow, the Department of Transportation (DOT) may require vehicles traveling on mountain passes to use tire chains. Current law is silent on the practice of installing tire chains within DOT right of way and charging a fee for this service.

Other states, such as California, permit businesses that offer tire chain installation and removal services for a fee to operate in the state highway right of way.

Summary of Bill:

The DOT may issue permits to allow the installation or removal of tire chains on motor vehicles within the DOT right of way. Tire chains may only be installed or removed at locations designated in the permit. A fee may be charged to drivers for this service.

The DOT may determine how many permits are desirable to provide maximum convenience and safety to traffic, and may charge a fee for the permit. The DOT must adopt other implementation rules, including requiring permittees to wear reflective clothing and use appropriate signage.

The DOT assumes no responsibility for the actions of the permittees and is absolved of liability for permittees actions or omissions.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.