SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5889
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 April 25, 2013
Title: An act relating to snowmobile parking permit and license fees.
Brief Description: Modifying snowmobile parking permit and license fees.
Sponsors: Senators Nelson, Schlicher, Fain, Hatfield, Hewitt, Fraser and Kohl-Welles.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Ways & Means: 4/25/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS |
Staff: Sherry McNamara (786-7402)
Background: The State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) administers a winter recreation program that includes 120 sno-parks statewide. Approximately 80 of these sno-parks are used primarily for snowmobile trail access and the other 40 provide non-motorized trail access for cross-country skiers. The snowmobile program and the non-motorized program are separately funded and must be financially self supporting. The snowmobile program is funded from snowmobile registration fees and a percentage of the state gasoline tax, which is $0.23 per gallon of fuel, based on 135 gallons of fuel usage per year per registered snowmobile. The non-motorized program is funded by the proceeds from the sno-park parking permit fees. The Snowmobile Advisory Committee and the Winter Recreation Advisory Committee advise the Commission on the use of funds for costs associated with snow removal, trail grooming, enforcement, equipment purchases, safety education, and program administration.
Generally, snowmobiles must be registered with the Department of Licensing (DOL) if owned and operated in the state, and display a snowmobile decal. The initial fee and annual registration fee is $30. The owner of a registered snowmobile receives a free annual sno-park permit. A vintage snowmobile is defined as a snowmobile that was manufactured at least 30 years ago. The registration fee for a vintage snowmobile is $12 annually.
The sno-park permit fee is determined by the Commission in consultation with the Winter Recreation Advisory Committee. A daily sno-park permit is $20 per day, and an annual sno-park permit is $40.
Summary of Bill: The Commission, in consultation with the Snowmobile Advisory Committee, may require a fee for the issuance of the annual sno-park parking permit.
The initial license fee and renewal fee for a snowmobile is increased to $40 until July 1, 2014. On July 1, 2014, both fees are increased to $50.
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.