FINAL BILL REPORT

ESSB 5127

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Senators McCoy, Billig, Darneille, Hunt, Rolfes and Schoesler).

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

House Committee on Appropriations

Background: Under current law, traffic infractions generally include both a base penalty and additional fees and assessments are deposited in various accounts. One such additional fee is a $2.00 traumatic brain injury (TBI) fee. The TBI fee is deposited in the state TBI account to support various activities and services related to TBI. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) administers the funds, after appropriation by the Legislature. The TBI fee may be reduced or waived by the court.

Summary: The TBI fee is increased from $2.00 to $5.00 per traffic infraction and may not be reduced or waived.

DSHS must disburse the incremental revenue from the fee increase in a diverse manner to include rural areas of the state.

The composition of the Washington TBI Strategic Partnership Advisory Council is increased by one representative from a non-profit organization serving individuals with TBI and the executive director of the State Brain Injury Association is removed as a member of the council.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	47	0
House	95	0	(House amended)
Senate	47	1	(Senate concurred)