SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6032
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 January 30, 2012
Title: An act relating to the recovery of costs of studded tire damage to highways.
Brief Description: Imposing a fee on each new tire sold that contains studs.
Sponsors: Senators Kohl-Welles, Haugen, Kline, Tom and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/24/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)
Background: Under current law, studded tires may only be used from November 1 until March 31 each year. It is a traffic infraction, punishable by a fine of $124, to use studded tires between April 1 and November 1.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) estimates the cost to repair damage done by studded tires to be $24.7 million each year.
Summary of Bill: A $5 fee is added to the retail sale of each new studded tire. Proceeds are deposited in to the motor vehicle fund and are used for road maintenance.
The fee is added to the business excise tax return and is collected by the Department of Revenue.
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: There is severe damage to Washington's roadways because of studded tires. WSDOT states that studded tires are replaced on an average of every five years and adding $20 to that purchase is reasonable considering the costs. Eleven states ban the use of studded tires and other states, including Alaska, impose a tax on them. In addition to road damage, there may be health issues as well. There is evidence that studded tires contribute to particles being released into the air from the concrete that becomes airborne and gets into people's lungs. Japan had a study that stated that there may be an air pollution component.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Kohl-Welles, prime sponsor.