SB 5134

Washington State House of Representatives	BILL ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SB 5134

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: Authorizing police officers to impound vehicles operated by drivers without specially endorsed licenses.

Sponsors: Senators Haugen, Swecker, Rasmussen and Delvin; by request of Washington State Patrol, Department of Licensing and Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows a police officer to impound a vehicle if the person operating the motor vehicle does not possess the appropriate special endorsement.

Hearing Date: 3/28/07

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.

Special driver's license endorsements are required to lawfully operate certain motor vehicles, including commercial vehicles and motorcycles.

Summary of Bill:

The list of circumstances under which a police officer may take custody of a motor vehicle and have it impounded is expanded. Upon a determination that a person does not possess a special endorsement required for the type of motor vehicle operated, an officer may impound the vehicle.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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