Title: An act relating to tires with retractable studs.

Brief Description: Addressing the use of tires with retractable studs.

Sponsors: Senators Haugen and Swecker.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/13/07, 2/19/07 [DPS, DNP].

Passed Senate: 3/12/07, 49-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5206 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Benton, Berkey, Clements, Delvin, Eide, Jacobsen, Kastama, Kauffman, Kilmer, Pflug, Sheldon and Spanel.

Minority Report: Do not pass.Signed by Senator Holmquist.

Staff: Dory Nicpon (786-7321)

Background: Current law proscribes the use of studded tires between April 1 and November 1. The use of studded tires between April 1 and November 1 is a traffic infraction, subject to a $101 fine. Any studs on tires offered for sale in Washington must be "lightweight studs."

Summary of Bill: A vehicle may be equipped year-round with tires that have retractable studs so long as the studs: retract below the tire wear bar; and are only used between November 1 and April 1. Retractable studs are exempt from the provisions that require studs offered for sale in Washington to be "lightweight studs."

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Retractable studded tires eliminate the need for motorists to chain their tires, or own two sets of tires. Tires equipped with retractable studs offer performance that is comparable to other tires, with the added benefit of being able to use the studs when needed. This feature may enhance safety and reduce roadway damage.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Bruce Starr, Oregon Senate, representing Q Tires.