SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1334
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 March 15, 2013
Title: An act relating to conversion kits on motorcycles.
Brief Description: Concerning conversion kits on motorcycles.
Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Shea, Taylor, MacEwen, Schmick, Holy, Short, Kagi, Orcutt, Overstreet, Rodne, Klippert, Hargrove, Condotta and Parker).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/25/13, 92-0.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/14/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)
Background: Motorcycle means a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, on which the driver:
rides on a seat or saddle and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a handlebar; or
rides on a seat in a partially or completely enclosed seating area that is equipped with safety belts and the motor vehicle is designed to be steered with a steering wheel.
Current motorcycle skills training programs are available for two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorcycles. Generally, the operator of a motorcycle must have the appropriate two-wheeled or three-wheeled driver's license endorsement in order to operate a two or three-wheeled motorcycle in Washington.
Private industry developed add-on equipment kits intended to provide additional stability to a motorcycle. There are some states that authorize the use of stabilization kits for motorcycles.
Summary of Bill: The definition of a motorcycle is revised to mean a motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels, not including any stabilizing conversion kits.
The Motorcycle Skills Education Program is amended to refer to the new definition of a motorcycle and clarifies that the definition excludes off-road motorcycles.
A person who operates a motorcycle with a stabilizing conversion kit must have a valid driver's license specially endorsed for a three-wheeled motorcycle.
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 give disabled vets the ability to get back out on the road. Getting out and enjoying the outdoors and activities people did before the war is part of the rehabilitation process. This bill is about wounded warriors and giving them the ability to continue riding. You should note that this bill will also allow seniors to continue riding longer in their lives. Something that has not been discussed yet is the affordability of these kits. In comparison to three wheeled motorcycles, the stabilizer kits at prices up to $4,000 are a more affordable conversion option for people than having to purchase a new three wheeled motorcycle which can run upwards of $30,000. Motorcycle skills education contractors that provide courses will incorporate these devices into the courses.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Shea, prime sponsor; Michael Campbell, Timothy McCall, A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments; Larry Walker, WA Road Riders Assn.