SENATE BILL REPORT

ESB 5581

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.

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Marr, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Becker, Benton, Berkey, Delvin, Eide, Jarrett, Kauffman, Kilmer, King, Ranker and Sheldon.

Background: Current laws regarding the sunscreening materials that may be applied to the windows of motor vehicles reference federal standards, as well as standards established by the Washington State Patrol (WSP). References to disparate standards have resulted in confusion among motorists, the window tinting industry, and law enforcement officers.

Summary of Engrossed Bill: References to sunscreening standards established by the WSP are changed to refer to federal standards.

All vehicles sold must be equipped with safety glazing material that meets federal requirements.

Permissible net film sunscreening may have a maximum light reflectance of 35 percent, and a minimum light transmission of 24 percent. Definitions are added for "light transmission," "net film screening," and "reflectance."

Certificates or decals that are required by law are permitted on vehicles so long as neither their size, nor placement on the vehicle, impair the driver's ability to safely operate the motor vehicle. Recreational products, such as toys or signs, may be applied to windows behind the driver provided they do not interfere with the driver's ability to see other vehicles, people, or objects.

A "collector vehicle" is defined as any vehicle more than 30 years old, and is added to the list of vehicles that may have window tinting that is darker than otherwise allowable applied to the windows behind the driver.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill addresses a safety issue: window-tinting. The type of glazing and the applicable restrictions have caused confusion among motorists and law enforcement, and have been the subject of judicial scrutiny. This bill will clarify the law.