SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    HB 1514

                              AS OF APRIL 1, 1991

Brief Description:  Requiring snowmobilers to wear helmets.

SPONSORS:Representatives Silver, Day, Orr, Moyer, D. Sommers and Paris.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  David Williams (786‑7305)

Hearing Dates:April 4, 1991

BACKGROUND:

Under current statute it is unlawful for a snowmobile operator to:  1) exceed a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under existing conditions; 2) operate a snowmobile in a manner that would endanger the property of another; 3) operate a snowmobile without a lighted headlight or taillight and an adequate breaking and muffling device; and 4) operate a snowmobile upon paved portions of or on the shoulder of any public road.  Violation of any of these conditions will result in a traffic infraction costing the snowmobile operator $57.

It is a misdemeanor to operate a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or habit forming drugs.

SUMMARY:

It is unlawful for a snowmobile operator to operate a snowmobile on public or private land unless the operator and riders are wearing protective helmets that conform to rules adopted by the Washington State Patrol.  Helmets must provide full ear protection and have either a neck or chin strap which is to be securely fastened while the snowmobile is in motion.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available