FINAL BILL REPORT

SHB 2466

C 268 L 10

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Concerning the regulation of ignition interlock devices by the Washington state patrol.

Sponsors: House Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Representatives Goodman, Rodne, Kelley, Roberts, Johnson, Ericks, Hudgins and Hurst; by request of Washington State Patrol).

House Committee on Judiciary

Senate Committee on Judiciary

Background:

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) provides standards for the certification, installation, repair, and removal of ignition interlock devices. Under the WSP rules, ignition interlock device must meet or exceed minimum test standards of the model specifications for ignition interlock. The device must also, among other things, allow for re-testing and record each time the vehicle is.

Ignition interlock service providers must also meet certain criteria and follow certain procedures established by the WSP. For example, a service provider must download client data and report the data, if required, to the court, the Department of Licensing, or the WSP. A service provider must maintain records of calibrations and other services performed on the devices.

In 2008 a pilot project was enacted requiring the WSP to monitor compliance of ignition interlock device users, manufacturers, vendors, and installers in two counties.

Summary:

The WSP may inspect the records and equipment of manufacturers and vendors to monitor compliance. The WSP may only inspect devices in customers' vehicles when installation is being done at a vendor's place of business. The WSP may suspend or revoke certification of a device and may suspend or revoke the installation privileges of a service provider or installer for any noncompliance. During any period of suspension or revocation, the provider or installer is responsible for notifying its customers of any changes to their service agreements. A provider or installer whose certification has been suspended or revoked may seek an administrative hearing by submitting a written request to the WSP within 20 days after receiving the notice of suspension or revocation.

An ignition interlock device must employ fuel cell technology, meet or exceed minimum test standards provided by rule, and be maintained in accordance with the rules and standards adopted by the WSP. Companies that do not use devices employing fuel cell technology have five years from the effective date of the act to begin using devices with fuel cell technology.

Votes on Final Passage: