| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Commerce & Labor Committee | |
SB 5551
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: Enhancing enforcement of liquor and tobacco laws.
Sponsors: Senators Prentice, Kohl-Welles, Clements and Rasmussen; by request of Liquor Control Board.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/27/07
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).
Background:
The Liquor Control Board (Board) enforces the liquor laws as well as the tax laws for cigarettes
and other tobacco products. The Board has inspection authority to obtain information from
licensees and common carriers about any matter related to the administration and enforcement of
the liquor laws. The Board may inspect the books and records of common carriers when
enforcing the tax laws related to tobacco products but not to cigarettes. The Board has no
authority to inspect books and records of vehicle rental agencies.
Summary of Bill:
The Board may inspect the books and records of common carriers in enforcing the cigarette tax
law, and may inspect the books and records of vehicle rental agencies used to transport
contraband cigarettes and other tobacco products.
The Board may also issue subpoenas to compel the production of books and records during an
investigation of alleged violations of both the liquor and tobacco tax laws.
Rules Authority: The bill does not address the rule-making powers of an agency.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.