Washington State House of Representatives	BILL ANALYSIS
Transportation Committee

HB 2362

Brief Description:  Adjusting the motorcycle skills course fee.

Sponsors:  Representatives Hatfield, Hankins, Cooper and Anderson; by request of Department of Licensing.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Increases the fee for the Motorcycle Safety Education Program to no more than $100 for riders age 18 or older.

Hearing Date:  1/30/02

Staff:  Penny Nerup (786‑7335).

Background:

This is Department of Licensing (DOL) request legislation.

The Motorcycle Skills Education Program (MSEP) was created in order to promote motorcycle safety awareness..  Under this program, the DOL certifies instructors and provides insurance, gasoline, student workbooks and any other necessary costs of the six‑ to eight‑week classes.  Participants in this program currently pay a fee of $50.  This fee does not  cover the costs to the DOL of conducting the program.

Riders under 18 years of age are required to take the MSEP; the program is voluntary for those age 18 and older.  However, participants in the program who are age 18 or older receive a waiver from taking the skills and knowledge test for a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license, and often receive a price break on their purchase of a motorcycle and on their insurance.

Due to a significant increase in the number of persons purchasing motorcycles and the benefits of  taking the education program, there is a six‑month back‑log of riders who want to take the classes.

Summary of Bill:

The fee for taking a Motorcycle Skills Education Program remains at $50 for riders under age 18 and is increased to no more than $100 for riders 18 years old or older.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 23, 2002.

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