Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
SB 5634
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. |
Brief Description: Exempting a widow or widower with gold star license plates from vehicle licensing fees for one motor vehicle.
Sponsors: Senators Conway, Rolfes, O'Ban, Hobbs, Dammeier, McCoy, Hatfield and Chase.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/23/15
Staff: Paul Ingiosi (786-7114).
Background:
In the 2008 session, the Legislature passed Substitute Senate Bill 6678, the Armed Forces license plate bill, which authorized the Department of Licensing (DOL) to issue special license plates denoting the recipient of the plate was the parent of a member of the United States Armed Forces who died while in service or as a result of their service. The DOL was prohibited from setting or charging an additional fee for these plates, but all other license fees still applied and the plates are replaced free of charge if they are lost, stolen, damaged, defaced, or destroyed.
In 2010 the "Vehicle and Vessel Title and Registration Statutes—Reorganization" bill passed by the Legislature codified the Gold Star license plate. Most recently, in 2013 the Legislature unanimously passed Senate Bill 5161 expanding the list of individuals who are eligible to receive a Gold Star license plate to include a widow or widower, a biological or adopted child, an adoptive parent, a stepparent, and a foster parent or other adult that is legally responsible for the member of the United States Armed Forces.
Summary of Bill:
Gold Star license plates that are issued to the widow or widower are also exempt from annual registration fees and motor vehicle excise taxes.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.