SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6689

                    As of February 5, 1996

Title:  An act relating to collegiate license plates.

Brief Description:  Extending the collegiate license plate program to all institutions of higher education.

Sponsors:  Senators Wood, Bauer, Prince, Sheldon, Drew, Zarelli, Winsley and Rasmussen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  2/6/96.

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 plates.  In addition to the ordinary fees required to register and license vehicles, the DOL may charge an annual fee of not more than $35 to offset production and administration costs associated with the special plate program.  These fees are deposited in the motor vehicle fund. 

In 1994, the Legislature created the collegiate license plate fund program.  The program allows any state four-year institution of higher education to apply to DOL for issuance of a collegiate license plate.  A collegiate license plate displays a mascot or symbol, plus the name of the college or university. In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon registration and renewal of a motor vehicle, the owner of a motor vehicle issued a collegiate license plate pays an annual fee of $30.  DOL deducts an amount, not to exceed $2 for administration and collection expenses. The remaining proceeds, minus the cost of plate production, are earmarked for student scholarships at the participating college or university.

As of 11 January, 2,106 people had applied for the University of Washington license plate, and 3,779 had applied for the Washington State University license plate. Production of a  Central Washington University license plate and a Western Washington University license plate begins this month.

There are 32 community and technical colleges in Washington.

Summary of Bill:  The collegiate license plate fund program is expanded to include "institutions of higher education."  Institutions of higher education include not only state universities, regional universities, and The Evergreen State College, but community and technical colleges. 

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 5, 1996. 

Effective Date:  The bill takes effect on January 1, 1997, but the Department of Licensing and the appropriate authorities of the various institutions of higher education may take action before January 1, 1997 to allow for full implementation on January 1, 1997.