SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5267

                    As of January 18, 2000

Title:  An act relating to covering materials on vehicles.

Brief Description:  Requiring gravel loads in larger counties to be covered.

Sponsors:  Senators Stevens, Haugen, Benton, Rossi, Roach and Eide.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Transportation:  3/4/99; 1/19/00.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff:  Michelle Chase (786-7305)

Background:  Current statute requires any truck operating on a public highway with a load of dirt, sand or gravel that is susceptible to being dropped, spilled, leaked or otherwise escaping to cover its load.  The exception is if six inches of freeboard is maintained within the body of the truck.  Even though the material may have a "peak in the middle," the material at the sides must be six inches below the top edge of the body.  In addition, the carrier is required to sweep off any rocks or other debris from the vehicle's body, fenders, sideboards, tires, etc., prior to proceeding on a public highway.

Summary of Bill:  A vehicle carrying a load of dirt, sand or gravel that is susceptible to being dropped or spilled must be covered when the vehicle is operating in a county with a population of 200,000 or more (King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, Clark, Kitsap and Yakima counties).

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

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