FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1593

                         C 190 L 97

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Collecting solid waste or recyclables.

Sponsors:  Representatives Scott, Zellinsky and Sheldon.

House Committee on Transportation Policy & Budget

Senate Committee on Transportation

Background:  The law prohibits the transportation of persons on the running board, fenders, hood or other outside parts of a motor vehicle except an authorized emergency vehicle, such as a fire truck.  It is a common practice in many parts of the state, in both public and private garbage and trash collection, to have a "swamper" ride on the rear platform of the truck while the vehicle is proceeding down the street collecting trash.  This practice usually occurs when the truck is on route collecting trash from homes and businesses while traveling at speeds of less than 20 miles per hour (mph).  The swamper rides inside the vehicle when the vehicle is traveling to or from the operations base, a landfill, or transfer station.

Most rear-loading garbage trucks require the employee to climb up to access the cab.  This makes collection more laborious as it places a greater physical strain on the swamper and increases the amount of time required to finish a route.

Summary:  Garbage trucks collecting garbage or recyclables on route at speeds of 20 mph or less may legally transport the swamper on the outside of the vehicle.

Votes on Final Passage:

House914

Senate430

Effective:July 27,  1997