Brief Description: Authorizing the "Share the Road" special license plate.

Sponsors: Representatives Wood, Jarrett, Simpson, B. Sullivan, Wallace, Kilmer, Hankins, Haler, Hunter, Morrell, Lovick, Nixon and Ormsby.

Hearing Date: 2/14/05

Staff: Teresa Berntsen (786-7301).

Background:

The Legislature created the Special License Plate Review Board in the 2003 session to review special vehicle license plate applications from governmental or nonprofit organizations in Washington state. The Board must verify the organization and proposed plate meet criteria set by state law, and then forwards the approved application to the Legislature.

On December 10, 2004, the Board approved the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's "Share the Road" license plate application.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Licensing must issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing an organization that promotes bicycle safety awareness and education throughout Washington State.

An applicant for a "Share the Road" license plate pays an initial fee of $40 and an annual renewal fee of $30. The initial revenue generated from the plate sales must be deposited into the Motor Vehicle Account until the state has been reimbursed for implementation costs. After reimbursement, the revenue must be deposited into the Share the Road Account, which promotes bicycle safety and awareness education in communities throughout Washington.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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