SENATE BILL REPORT
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. |
As of February 11, 2015
Title: An act relating to exempting a widow or widower with gold star license plates from vehicle licensing fees for one motor vehicle.
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 History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/10/15.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)
Background: The Department of Licensing issues various special vehicle license plates that may be used in lieu of standard plates. Generally, special license plates that are sponsored by a governmental or nonprofit organization have an additional fee that is due annually, with the proceeds benefiting a specific organization or purpose. Other special license plates are available to individuals that meet certain requirements. One such special plate is the Gold Star license plate, which may be issued to the mother, father, 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 armed forces who died while in service and as a result of that service. Gold Star license plates are issued without payment of any license plate fees and are replaced free of charge if the plate is lost, stolen, damaged, defaced, or destroyed.
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.
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: Many states allow free registration for Gold Star recipients and it only applies to a small group of people. This bill allows Gold Star wives to take those registration dollars and put them to use helping veterans.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Conway, prime sponsor; Donna Buck, MaraLynn Barthel, Yvonne Crockett, Gold Star Wives.