SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6015
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 3, 2016
Title: An act relating to providing funding for the hunter education training program operated by the department of fish and wildlife through the issuance of national rifle association special license plates.
Brief Description: Providing funding for the hunter education training program through the issuance of national rifle association special license plates.
Sponsors: Senators Roach, Becker, Hargrove, Angel, Pearson, Conway, Sheldon, Hatfield, Dammeier, King, Honeyford, Schoesler, Hobbs, Ranker and Baumgartner.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/23/15.
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, 2015.
Summary of Bill: The National Rifle Association (NRA) special license plate, displaying the NRA logo, is 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 NRA special license plate, and a $30 fee is charged for renewal of a special license plate. Proceeds from the NRA special license plate must support firearm safety and education as part of the Department of Fish and Wildlife's hunter education training program.
The NRA special license plate is exempt from the temporary moratorium on special license plates.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on January 1, 2016.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This provides additional necessary funds for hunter and firearm safety. This funding provides training about firearm safety and conservation for hunters. If only 5 percent of the NRA members in Washington purchase plates they will sell more than 5000 in the first year.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Roach, prime sponsor; James Williams, Pierce County Sportsmen's Council, Tacoma Sportsmen's Club; David Whipple, WA Dept. Fish & Wildlife.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.