SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6509

As of February 5, 2004

Title: An act relating to children on motorcycles.

Brief Description: Enhancing safety for children transported on motorcycles.

Sponsors: Senators Regala, Horn, Haugen, Shin and Kohl-Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Highways & Transportation: 2/5/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS & TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: Under current law, it is unlawful for any person to transport a child under the age of five on a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle. A violation of this law is a traffic infraction.

Summary of Substitute Bill: It is unlawful for any person to transport a child on a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle if the child is under the age of six, under sixty pounds, or if the child's feet do not rest firmly on the passenger foot pegs. However, this prohibition does not apply if the motorcycle or motor-driven cycle has three wheels, is powered by an electric motor, or has a passenger back rest sufficient to support the child.

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill: The original bill was not considered.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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