SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5062

                    As of January 18, 1995

Title:  An act relating to side marker lamps.

Brief Description:  Requiring that side marker lamps on motor vehicles be maintained in working order.

Sponsors:  Senator Fairley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  1/18/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jeff Doyle (786-7322)

Background:  Under current state law, certain types of lighting equipment (such as brake lights, headlights, etc.) are required on all motor vehicles.  Other types of lights on motor vehicles (such as side markers) are allowed, but not required.

Motor vehicles may be equipped with side marker lights.  However, for those vehicles having side markers, there is no requirement that they be kept in working order.

Recently it was reported that a traffic infraction issued for defective equipment was thrown out of district court because there was no mandate in state law requiring vehicles having side markers to maintain them in working order.

Summary of Bill:  Owners of motor vehicles with factory-installed side marker lights must keep the lights in working order.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.