SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1152
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 of March 31, 2009
Title: An act relating to providing notification stickers to drivers with certain disabilities or impairments.
Brief Description: Providing notification stickers to drivers with certain disabilities or impairments.
Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Williams, Roach, Wallace, Orcutt, Moeller, Upthegrove, Simpson and Wood).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/04/09, 95-0.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/30/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Janice Baumgardt (786-7319)
Background: The National Institute of Mental Health currently estimates that approximately 60 million American adults have a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Of this population, slightly under one-quarter, or approximately 6 percent of all American adults, are estimated to have a serious mental illness. Mental disorders are currently the leading cause of disability in the United States for individuals between the ages of 15 and 44.
In 2007 the Washington State Patrol (WSP) Field Operations Bureau initiated 1,269,135 traffic stops across the state, with approximately 41 percent of those interactions resulting in the issuance of some form of traffic citation. On the local level, the Seattle Police Department initiated 62,901 traffic stops in 2006 while the Vancouver Police Department initiated 38,838 in 2007.
Summary of Bill: The Director of the Department of Licensing (DOL) must work with the WSP and interested parties to design a notification sticker that may be used by an individual with a disability or impairment that might affect interactions with medical or law enforcement personnel. The notification sticker must be yellow, contain the international symbol of access and the words "Not a Parking Permit," and be designed to be displayed either on the windshield or license plate of the vehicle depending on the determination of the DOL. Upon completion, the DOL must make the design available to interested parties.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This voluntary disclosure option will reduce conflict and misunderstanding by using a pro-active and constructive way in which to alert first-responders of a disability or impairment on the driver's part that could be misconstrued by medical personnel or law enforcement.
OTHER: Available for questions.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Donna Brase, Vane, Washington; Dr. Milada Allen, Vancouver, Washington.
OTHER: Captain Jeff Devere, WSP; Toni Wilson, DOL.