SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5967

                      As of March 1, 1995

Title:  An act relating to public school license plates.

Brief Description:  Authorizing license plates depicting public schools.

Sponsors:  Senators McAuliffe, Johnson, Fraser, Rasmussen and Kohl.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  3/1/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Jennifer Joly (786-7305)

Background:  Currently, the Department of Licensing (DOL) has the authority to create, design, and issue special license plates, in lieu of regular or personalized license plates.  In addition to the ordinary fees required to register and license vehicles, the department may charge an annual fee of not more than $35 to offset the costs of production of special plates and for the administration of the special plate program.  These fees are deposited in the motor vehicle fund.

During the 1994 legislative session, the collegiate license plate fund program was created.  The program allows any state four-year institution of higher education to apply to DOL for issuance of a collegiate license plate. The proceeds from the sale of collegiate license plates are earmarked for student scholarships at the participating college or university.

Summary of Bill:  Beginning January 1, 1996, DOL must issue license plates displaying a symbol of public schools.  The DOL designs the plate, in consultation with the State Art Commission, based upon the submissions of students in public schools.

In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon registration and renewal of a motor vehicle, the holder of a public schools plate pays a fee of $30.  The DOL deducts an amount not to exceed $2 for administration and collection expenses.  The remaining proceeds minus the cost of plate production are remitted to the State Treasurer with a proper identifying detailed report.

When applying to the DOL for a special plate, the applicant designates the public school district to be the recipient of funds. The State Treasurer credits the funds to the appropriate public school district selected by the applicant.  If the applicant fails to select a public school district, the State Treasurer distributes the funds among the school districts of the state.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on March 1, 1995.

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