SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6562

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.

Background: The Department of Licensing (DOL) issues special vehicle license plates that may be used in lieu of standard plates. A governmental or nonprofit sponsoring organization seeking to sponsor a special plate either submits an application to DOL or requests legislation to create the special plate.

Under the DOL application method, the application packet must include the design of the special license plate, proof of 3500 signatures supporting the special license plate, and a start-up fee of $6,300. For special license plates enacted by the Legislature, a sponsoring organization must submit prepayment of all start-up costs to DOL within 30 days of enactment.

The sponsoring organization seeking to sponsor the special plate must reimburse DOL for the costs of establishing the new special plate. If the sponsoring organization is not able to meet the prepayment requirement, revenues generated from the sale of the special license plate are first used to pay off any costs associated with establishing the new plate. The sponsoring organization must provide a proposed license plate design to DOL. The sponsoring organization must submit an annual financial report to DOL detailing actual revenues generated from the sale of the special license plate. The reports are reviewed, approved, and presented to the Joint Transportation Committee.

DOL collects special license plate fees, and for administrative expenses, deducts an amount not to exceed $12 for new plate issuance and $2 for renewal. After these expenses are paid, the state treasurer deposits the proceeds into the motor vehicle account until DOL determines the start-up costs for a special license plate are paid. After that point, all remaining proceeds go to the sponsoring organization.

Summary of Bill: A new special license plate is created that displays the logo of the Seattle National Hockey League (NHL) team. The net proceeds will be distributed in the following manner:

50 percent to the NHL Seattle foundation, or its successor organization, to help marginalized youth succeed in life through increased access to sports and other opportunities; and
50 percent to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor to administer the Boundless Washington program to facilitate opportunities for young people with physical and sensory disabilities enjoy and experience the outdoors.

A $40 fee will be charged for an initial Seattle NHL hockey team special license plate, and $30 for an annual renewal.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is part of an exciting opportunity to support philanthropic efforts as the new hockey team comes to Washington. The bill will provide an opportunity for disadvantaged and homeless youth and support outdoor opportunities for individuals with developmental disabled students. This bill is a great partnership between the team and support for non-profit organizations. Hockey is an expensive sport and some of the efforts are designed to reduce the financial and other barriers for youth to participate.