Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1993

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: Authorizing military surplus vehicles to operate on public highways.

Sponsors: Representatives Shea, Young, Walsh, Irwin and Kraft.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Defines military surplus vehicle to mean a nontracked vehicle manufactured and originally sold directly to the Armed Forces of the United States and is no longer owned by the United States Armed Forces.

  • Allows military surplus vehicles to be titled and registered as collector vehicles.

  • Requires military surplus vehicles to meet limited use, insurance coverage, and safety inspection requirements.

Hearing Date: 2/28/19

Staff: Beth Redfield (786-7140).

Background:

A "collectible vehicle" is defined to mean a vehicle which is of unique or rare design, is maintained primarily for infrequent use, and has collectible vehicle insurance coverage that restricts the mileage or use of the vehicle and requires the owner to have another vehicle for personal use.

A registered owner may apply for a collector vehicle plate for a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old. The vehicle may only be used for participation in club activities, exhibitions, tours, parades, and occasional driving.

The owner may receive a collector plate that is assigned by the Department of Licensing or the owner can provide an actual Washington state-issued license plate designated for general use in the year the vehicle was manufactured. The original registration is $35, and the plates:

Both types of vehicles are exempt from requirements to meet emissions standards.

Specific provisions do not exist allowing surplus military vehicle titling and registration.

Summary of Bill:

A "military surplus vehicle" is defined to mean a nontracked vehicle manufactured and originally sold directly to the Armed Forces of the United States and is no longer owned by the United States Armed Forces.

The definition of a collectible vehicle is expanded to include a military surplus vehicle.

The definition of a collector vehicle is expanded to include a military surplus vehicle, regardless of age of the military surplus vehicle, allowing these types of vehicles to be registered as collector vehicles and receive special collector vehicle license plates.

The types of events allowed for a collector vehicle are expanded to include veterans' events.

In order to apply for a certificate of title for a military surplus vehicle, the vehicle owner must submit a certification that the military surplus vehicle:

Military surplus vehicles that have collector plates are exempted from vehicle lighting and other equipment requirements established by the Washington State Patrol.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 18, 2019

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on January 1, 2020.