Brief Description: Authorizing state parks and recreation commission license plates.

Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins, Ericksen, B. Sullivan and Morrell; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.

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 Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission's "Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission" license plate application.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Licensing must issue a special license plate displaying a symbol or artwork recognizing Washington state parks as premier destinations that preserve significant natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources.

An applicant for a "Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission" 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 Parks Improvement Account. This account is used for operating state parks, developing and renovating park facilities, park stewardship, and other state park purposes.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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