SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 6372

                    AS OF FEBRUARY 1, 1994

Brief Description:  Placing liability on parents of unemancipated minors who damage lodging or accommodation premises.

SPONSORS: Senators A. Smith, Nelson, Oke, M. Rasmussen and Haugen

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Staff:  Lidia Mori (786‑7755)

Hearing Dates: February 2, 1994

BACKGROUND:

The parent or legal guardian of an unemancipated minor who receives food, credit, lodging, or accommodation at any hotel, motel, or boarding house and then leaves without paying the proprietor or manager is liable for the retail value of such goods or services, not to exceed $500.  In addition, the parent or legal guardian can be required to pay an additional penalty of not less than $100 and not more than $200, plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs expended by the owner or seller. 

Current law holds parents liable for up to $5,000 when the minor child, who is living with the parents, willfully or maliciously destroys property or willfully and maliciously inflicts personal injury on another person.

SUMMARY:

The parents or legal guardian of an unemancipated minor are liable for any damages caused by the minor when the minor receives a lodging or accommodation or uses the facilities at a hotel, motel, boarding house, or lodging house.  Liability encompasses the costs of cleanup and repair of the premises.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested