Brief Description: Modifying subagent authority to process mail-in vehicle registration renewals.

Sponsors: Representatives Hatfield, Woods, Simpson, Cooper, Rockefeller and Mielke.

Hearing Date: 1/22/03

Staff: Melissa Beard (786-7347).

Background:

Currently, a Washington vehicle owner can use the Internet to renew their license tabs. There are two ways to receive tabs; have them mailed or pick them up at a county auditor or subagent office chosen by the customer. If a person chooses to have them mailed, the information is sent to the county auditor's office and they process all mail requests.

At this time, replacement plates cannot be requested on-line. A person must go to their county auditor or subagent to purchase or send their renewal to the county auditor for mail out. The Department is currently working on offering replacement plates on-line and hope to have the option available July 2003.

Summary of Bill:

This bill would give the authority for subagents to also mail out license tabs if chosen by the customer when renewing their vehicle on-line. It would also give subagents the authority to mail out replacement plates to on-line customers when that option becomes available. This authority includes being reimbursed for the cost of postage to mail out the replacement plates.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: October 1, 2003.