SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5050
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 Passed Senate, February 26, 2013
Title: An act relating to the carrying of passengers in a vehicle attached to a flatbed tow truck.
Brief Description: Authorizing registered tow truck operators to carry passengers in a vehicle attached to a flatbed tow truck under certain situations.
Sponsors: Senators Sheldon, King, Ericksen and Litzow.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/30/13, 2/05/13 [DP].
Passed Senate: 2/26/13, 49-0.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Eide, Co-Chair; King, Co-Chair; Benton, Vice Co-Chair; Hobbs, Vice Co-Chair; Fain, Budget Leadership Cabinet; Billig, Brown, Carrell, Ericksen, Harper, Mullet, Rolfes, Schlicher, Sheldon and Smith.
Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)
Background: Under current law, it is unlawful to ride in a vehicle that is being towed by a tow truck.
Summary of Bill: A tow truck operator may allow passengers to ride in a vehicle that is being carried on the deck of a flatbed tow truck under certain conditions, including that passengers are using seatbelts and child restraints, if they are otherwise required by law.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
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 allows tow truck operators the flexibility to allow passengers to stay in their car when it is safe. This is a rural issue because you cannot always call a cab or ambulance for someone that breaks down and will not fit in truck cab or has special transportation needs. This will create consistent law enforcement across the state so that towers will know what is allowed.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Sheldon, prime sponsor; Randy Houston, Randy's Auto Parts and Towing; Stuart Halsan, Towing and Recovery Assn. of WA.