FINAL BILL REPORT
SSB 6330
C 130 L 92
SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED
Brief Description: Concerning the operation of a motor vehicle while license is suspended or revoked.
SPONSORS: Senate Committee on Law & Justice (originally sponsored by Senators Nelson, Madsen, Bauer, McCaslin, Oke and Roach)
SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY
BACKGROUND:
In 1991, upon the recommendation of a task force composed of judges, prosecutors, attorneys, the State Patrol, and the Department of Licensing, the Legislature enacted a statute that restructured the various crimes of driving with a suspended or revoked license into three categories of severity.
The first degree crime is a gross misdemeanor with mandatory minimum penalties that escalate with repeat offenses. The second degree crime is also a gross misdemeanor but without the mandatory minimum penalties. This crime involves driving with a suspended license and not being eligible for reinstatement. The third degree crime is a misdemeanor and involves driving with a suspended license because of failure to get alcohol and drug treatment or furnish financial responsibility.
It was intended, but not specifically set forth, that the third degree crime would also include a person who was driving with a suspended license but while the person was actually eligible to be reinstated.
It is suggested that the statute be clarified on the classification of the crime of driving with a suspended license while eligible for license reinstatement.
SUMMARY:
The statute which sets forth the penalties for driving with a suspended or revoked license is clarified for crimes in the third degree. A person who drives with a suspended or revoked license, but who is eligible for reinstatement, is guilty of the crime of driving while license suspended or revoked in the third degree, a misdemeanor.
VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:
Senate 45 0
House 97 0
EFFECTIVE: March 31, 1992