SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6151

As of January 30, 2004

Title: An act relating to vehicle headlights.

Brief Description: Requiring headlights when wipers are used.

Sponsors: Senators Jacobsen, Haugen, Kastama and Kohl-Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Highways & Transportation: 1/29/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: Under current law, vehicle headlights, and all other lights required for different classes of vehicles (e.g., tail lamps, clearance lamps, etc.), must be on from one half hour after sunset to one half hour before sunrise. Vehicle lights are also required to be on when, due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, visibility is less than 1,000 feet.

Summary of Bill: Headlights, and all other lights required for different classes of vehicles, must be on when windshield wipers are used.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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