SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    HB 1458

          AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION, MARCH 28, 1991

Brief Description:  Ending dual registration requirements for limousine charter party carriers.

SPONSORS:Representatives Ludwig, Heavey, Lisk and Franklin; by request of Department of Licensing.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Patterson, Chairman; Nelson, Vice Chairman; von Reichbauer, Vice Chairman; Barr, Conner, Erwin, Hansen, Madsen, McMullen, Oke, Sellar, Skratek, Snyder, Thorsness, and Vognild. 

Staff:  Mary McLaughlin (786‑7309)

Hearing Dates:March 28, 1991

BACKGROUND:

Prior to 1989, limousines with a seating capacity of seven or more were regulated as charter buses by the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC), and limousines with a seating capacity of less than seven were considered taxi cabs and were required to obtain a for-hire passenger permit from the Department of Licensing (DOL).  As taxi cabs, DOL also required the filing of a surety bond or proof of liability insurance.

In 1989, limousine services were placed under the regulatory authority of the UTC.  Limousines are subject to the UTC's entry standard (Fit, Willing & Able), chauffeur qualifications, safety and insurance provisions, and payment of the annual regulatory fee.  (Rate regulation is not imposed.)

Because of a legislative oversight, limousines with a seating capacity of less than seven are still required to register and comply with the bonding requirements of DOL.

SUMMARY:

For-hire limousine services are exempt from the taxicab permit and insurance requirements of the Department of Licensing, as these vehicles are now regulated by the Utilities and Transportation Commission.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available

TESTIMONY FOR:  None

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  No one