HB 1892

Washington State House of Representatives	BILL ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1892

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Addressing the impoundment of vehicles parked on public streets by police officers.

Sponsors: Representatives Goodman, Rodne, O'Brien, Jarrett, Lovick and Priest.

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows a police officer to impound a vehicle parked on a public street with registration that has been expired for more than 60 days.

Hearing Date: 2/19/07

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

A police officer is allowed by statute to take custody of a motor vehicle and have it impounded under the following circumstances:

if the vehicle's driver is arrested for certain offenses or taken into custody;
when the officer finds the vehicle unattended upon a highway where the vehicle is an obstruction to traffic or jeopardizes public safety;
when the vehicle is stolen;
when the vehicle is illegally parked; and
upon a determination that a person is operating the vehicle without a valid driver's license.

Once a vehicle is impounded, the impounding tow truck operator is required to notify the legal and registered owners of the vehicle. This notice must be sent by first-class mail within 24 hours of impoundment and must inform the owner of the identity of the person or agency authorizing the impound. The notification must also include the name of the impounding tow firm, its address, and telephone number.

Summary of Bill:

A police officer may impound a vehicle parked on a public street with registration that has been expired for more than 60 days.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 18, 2007.

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