Brief Description: Penalizing failure to use required traction equipment.

Sponsors: Senators Stevens, Horn, Benton, Haugen, Oke, Swecker, Esser and Mulliken.

Hearing Date: 4/1/03

Staff: Reema Griffith (786-7301).

Background:

Under current law, failure to use particular tires, tire chains or traction equipment when advised to do so by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is a crime punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1000, or both.

Summary of Bill:

Failure to use required traction equipment is reclassified as a traffic infraction with a fine of $500.

Technical amendments are made which update the terminology used to describe road conditions and required traction devices to reflect that which is currently used by the WSDOT.

The WSDOT or the Washington State Patrol is authorized to specify different traction recommendations or requirements for four-wheel drive vehicles in gear.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.