SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5260

As Passed Senate, March 10, 2001

Title:  An act relating to drivers required to use ignition interlock or other biological or technical devices.

Brief Description:  Requiring a notation in the driving record when a driver is required to use an ignition interlock or other biological or technical device.

Sponsors:  Senators Kline, Roach, Costa, Johnson, Rossi, Shin, Kastama, Long and Regala.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Judiciary:  1/30/01, 2/6/01 [DP].

Passed Senate:  3/10/01, 48-0.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Majority Report:  Do pass.

Signed by Senators Kline, Chair; Constantine, Vice Chair; Costa, Johnson, Kastama, Long, McCaslin, Roach, Thibaudeau and Zarelli.

Staff:  Lidia Mori (786‑7755)

Background:  Current laws pertaining to driving or being in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of liquor or any drug require judges in some cases to order a defendant to drive only a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device.  The requirement is not perceived to be legally in effect until it is posted on the defendant's driver's license.  The proponents of this bill are concerned that some people may fail to have the requirement posted on their drivers' licenses and prevail in court because the "posting" has not occurred.

Summary of Bill:  The Department of Licensing must attach or imprint a notation on a person's driving record who is restricted to driving only a motor vehicle that is equipped with an ignition interlock or other biological or technical device.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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

Testimony For:  This bill removes the need for defendants to take the affirmative step of getting their drivers' licenses marked to indicate that they are restricted to driving only a motor vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device.  This bill supports the broad objectives of the Governor's Council on Substance Abuse.

Testimony Against:  None

Testified:  Michelle Walker, Prosecutor, City of Kent; Priscilla Lisicich, Chair of the Governor's Council on Substance Abuse.