SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5727
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 February 23, 2011
Title: An act relating to renewal notice fees for vehicle registrations.
Brief Description: Concerning vehicle registration fees.
Sponsors: Senators White, Haugen and Shin; by request of Department of Licensing.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/22/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Janice Baumgardt (786-7319)
Background: The Department of Licensing (DOL) has a practice of mailing vehicle renewal notices to vehicle owners.
DOL may allow customers to use credit and debit cards and may also charge a convenience fee to customers who use such cards.
Summary of Bill: DOL may charge vehicle owners a $5 fee for a physical renewal notice for vehicle registration. The fee is to be deposited into the Motor Vehicle Fund.
In addition to credit and debit cards, DOL may also allow for the use of electronic means for payment by customers.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
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 bill will encourage the faster adoption of electronic renewal notices by the public which will result in lower expenditures.
CON: The $5 fee doesn't give citizens anything they don't already get. The electronic notice will not provide an envelope which makes the processing easier.
OTHER: There should be a fee for the late renewal of registrations.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Alan Haight, DOL.
CON: George Rickle, citizen; Kim Wyman, Washington Association of County Auditors; James McMahan, Washington Association of County Officials.
OTHER: Jan Novak, Don McCallum, Washington Association of Vehicle Subagents.