SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1103

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 21, 2011

Title: An act relating to the use of television viewers in motor vehicles.

Brief Description: Modifying the use of television viewers in motor vehicles.

Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Kristiansen, Morris and Armstrong).

Brief History: Passed House: 2/22/11, 90-3.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/14/11, 3/21/11 [DPA].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass as amended.

Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; White, Vice Chair; King, Ranking Minority Member; Fain, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Delvin, Eide, Ericksen, Hill, Hobbs, Litzow, Nelson, Shin and Swecker.

Staff: Katherine Taylor (786-7434)

Background: Under current law, equipment capable of receiving television broadcasts must be located at a point behind the back of the driver's seat in a motor vehicle.

Summary of Bill (Recommended Amendments): The requirement that the equipment capable of receiving a television broadcast be located at a point behind the driver's seat is eliminated.

A person is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle equipped with any television viewer or screen when the moving images are visible to the driver while operating the motor vehicle on a public road.

EFFECT OF CHANGES MADE BY TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE (Recommended Amendments): An exception is created that allows drivers to view live video of their motor vehicles backing up.

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 on Substitute House Bill: PRO: Many other states allow this technology in vehicles; the technology is driver distraction neutral and safe.

OTHER: WSP just wants to make sure that drivers are not distracted and drive safely.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Ryan Spiller, Auto Alliance.

OTHER: Jason Berry, WSP.