HB 1344

SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1344

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.

As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Transportation, March 19, 2007

Title: An act relating to a window tint exemption for law enforcement vehicles.

Brief Description: Providing a window tint exemption for law enforcement vehicles.

Sponsors: Representatives Lovick, Rodne, Hudgins, Upthegrove and Campbell; by request of Washington State Patrol.

Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Murray, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Berkey, Clements, Holmquist, Jacobsen, Kastama, Kauffman, Kilmer, Pflug, Sheldon and Spanel.

Background: Current law restricts film sunscreening or coloring material, also referred to as "window tinting," that may be applied to the windows of a motor vehicle. Clear film sunscreening material that reduces or eliminates ultraviolet light may be applied to windshields. Tinting applied to the windows of motor vehicles, except the windshield, must allow minimum light transmission of 35 percent, as compared to clear glass.

Tinting with a greater degree of light reduction is permitted on the top six-inch area of a vehicle's windshield, and on all windows and the top six inches of the windshield for vehicles operated by, or carrying, a person with a documented physical or medical need for protection from sunlight exposure. Windows behind the driver on limousines and passenger buses may be darker under certain conditions. Three types of tinting materials are prohibited: (1) mirror finish products; (2) red, gold, yellow or black material; and (3) liquid pre-application material. Professional tinting installers must apply a sticker to the driver's door post indicating that the tinting meets state requirements. Operating a motor vehicle equipped with prohibited window tinting is a traffic infraction.

Summary of Bill: The side and rear windows of law enforcement vehicles are exempt from the window tinting restriction that requires minimum light transmission of 35 percent as compared to clear glass.

When law enforcement vehicles are sold to private individuals, the film sunscreening or coloring material must comply with the window tinting restrictions, or documentation must be provided to the buyer communicating that the windows must comply with window tinting restrictions before operation of the vehicle.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill addresses a gap identified in the law. It provides an exemption from window tinting restrictions for law enforcement. The exemption is needed for the protection of dignitaries and law enforcement canines.