SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 2299

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.

As of February 20, 2012

Title: An act relating to "4-H" special license plates.

Brief Description: Creating "4-H" special license plates.

Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Warnick, Clibborn, Haigh, Armstrong, Short, Nealey, Fagan, Tharinger, Hunt, Moscoso and Jinkins).

Brief History: Passed House: 2/08/12, 93-1.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/20/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)

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.

Revenues generated from the sale of a special license plate are first used to reimburse the motor vehicle account for any costs associated with establishing the new plate. After DOL determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the new plate, the remaining revenues are directed to various accounts and uses prescribed by the specific plate. DOL may also deduct up to $12 for an original issue and $2 for the renewal of a special plate to cover administration and collection expenses.

There is a moratorium on the issuance of new special license plates until July 1, 2013.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Amendment): The 4-H special license plate, displaying the 4-H logo, and the state flower plate, recognizing the state, are created. In addition to all fees and taxes that are required to be paid for a vehicle registration, a fee of $40 is charged for an original issue 4-H or state flower special license plate, and a $30 fee is charged upon renewal.

Proceeds from the 4-H special license plate are to promote 4-H throughout Washington State. Proceeds from the state flower special license plate are to support the Meerkerk Rhododendron Garden and to provide grants to other nonprofit organizations that work to preserve rhododendrons.

The 4-H and the state flower special license plates are exempt from the temporary moratorium on special license plates.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on January 1, 2013.