HB 2479 - DIGEST

     Finds that public safety is one of the highest priorities of government and that the security of the citizens is endangered when those who are committed to engaging in the commission, instigation, planning, preparation, aiding, or financing of terrorist acts abuse the freedoms, rights, privileges, and laws that underpin the great strength of this state and nation.

     Finds that in order to protect the people from harm and reduce threats to their safety and well-being, the state has a compelling interest in obtaining the information necessary to prevent terrorist acts by ensuring that those who are in this country are here legally and are fully complying with the law.

     Provides that any person who is residing in this state who is not a citizen of the United States shall apply for a Washington state identicard under RCW 46.20.117 within fifteen days from the date he or she becomes a resident.

     Requires each person applying for an identicard under this section to provide the department with a valid visa issued to him or her by the United States and his or her residential address and phone number.  Each identicard issued to an applicant by the department under this section shall indicate the person's status under the visa and shall include the visa identification number.  The department shall not issue an identicard under this section to any person who does not have a valid visa issued by the United States.

     Declares that any person who is not a citizen of the United States and who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

     Requires any person who is not a citizen of the United States who is requested or signaled to stop by a law enforcement officer to provide the law enforcement officer his or her visa and identicard upon request.

     Declares a violation of this provision is a misdemeanor.