SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5779

                    As of February 21, 1995

Title:  An act relating to special license plates.

Brief Description:  Funding voluntary spay and neutering through issuance of special plates.

Sponsors:  Senators Winsley, Franklin and Rasmussen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  2/21/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jeff Doyle (786-7322)

Background:  The Department of Licensing (DOL) is authorized to issue special license plates.  DOL also has authority to set the fee for special issuances, but does not have the ability to earmark the fees for specific, nonlicensing purposes.

Summary of Bill:  The Department of Licensing is authorized to create a special license plate and charge fees for its issuance to fund spaying and neutering services on pets owned by low-income persons.

A new account is established in the state treasury to deposit fees charged for the issuance of animal population control plates.  Monies in the account are to be administered by the Secretary of State, who must adopt rules to carry out the program.  The Secretary of State, after being presented a valid certificate of animal sterilization, reimburses the veterinarian who performs the operation.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 20, 1995.

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