Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Consumer Protection & Business Committee |
HB 1476
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: Concerning contracts for dogs and cats.
Sponsors: Representatives Stanford, Appleton and Fitzgibbon.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/13/19
Staff: Robbi Kesler (786-7153).
Background:
"Consumer lease" is defined as a contract of lease or bailment for the use of personal property for a period of time exceeding four months, and for a total contractual obligation not exceeding $25,000. The personal property should be primarily used for personal, family, or household purposes, whether or not the lessee has the option to purchase or otherwise become the owner of the property at the expiration of the lease. A lease contract's term shall not include any lease which meets the definition of a retail installment contract or the definition of a lease-purchase agreement. (Note, the $25,000 total contractual obligation does not apply to consumer leases of motor vehicles). The term "consumer lease" does not include a lease for agricultural, business, or commercial purposes, or to a government or governmental agency or instrumentality, or to an organization.
Consumer leases of motor vehicles, furniture, fixtures, appliances, commercial equipment, and other personal property are governed by federal and state law.
Summary of Bill:
The following contracts are void and unenforceable that are offered or entered into after the effective date:
a contract that is contingent upon making payments over a period of time subsequent to the transfer of possession of a dog or cat;
a contract provides or offers the option of transferring ownership of the dog or cat at the end of the lease term; or
a contract includes a provision naming the dog or cat as a security interest.
If a consumer enters into a contract listed above, after the effective date of the bill, the consumer shall be deemed to be the owner of the dog or cat and is entitled to the return of all amounts the consumer paid under the contract.
The bill does not apply to contracts for payments to repay an unsecured loan for the purchase of a dog or cat.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.