Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 2528

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.

Brief Description: Prohibiting the placement of tow truck operators in legal jeopardy in handling unmarked government vehicles.

Sponsors: Representatives Overstreet, Taylor, Shea and Buys.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Provides protection from liability to registered tow truck operators when impounding, transporting, or storing unauthorized unmarked law enforcement vehicles.

Hearing Date: 1/29/14

Staff: Andrew Russell (786-7143).

Background:

A tow truck operator must register with the Department of Licensing in order to impound, transport, or store unauthorized vehicles or dispose of abandoned vehicles. Registered tow truck operators may impound unauthorized vehicles on public property at the direction of law enforcement or on private property by the property owner. Finally, registered tow truck operators must have their tow trucks, equipment, and facilities inspected by the Washington State Patrol.

Summary of Bill:

Registered tow truck operators are immune from legal jeopardy of any kind for the impounding, transporting, and storing of an unauthorized and unmarked vehicle owned, leased, rented, or used by any state or local government.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.