SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6150

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Transportation, January 30, 2014

Title: An act relating to Medal of Honor special license plates.

Brief Description: Concerning Medal of Honor special license plates.

Sponsors: Senators Bailey, Hobbs, Angel, Benton, Conway, O'Ban, Roach and McAuliffe.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/29/14, 1/30/14 [DPS].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6150 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

Signed by Senators Eide, Co-Chair; King, Co-Chair; Hobbs, Vice Co-Chair; Fain, Budget Leadership Cabinet; Angel, Brown, Cleveland, Dansel, Ericksen, Liias, Mullet, O'Ban and Rolfes.

Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)

Background: The Medal of Honor is the highest military award that can be bestowed upon an individual, awarded for valor in action above the call of duty.

A recipient of the Medal of Honor is eligible for the Medal of Honor special license plates for use on a motor vehicle. The Medal of Honor license plate is exempt from vehicle license fees, license plate fees, and motor vehicle excise taxes.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): A recipient of the Medal of Honor is eligible for up to three sets of Medal of Honor special license plates. In lieu of the Medal of Honor special plate, a recipient of the Medal of Honor is eligible to receive regular issue or special license plates, exempt from vehicle license fees and motor vehicle excise taxes.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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 are seven Medal of Honor recipients in Washington and this will allow them to have up to three sets. It will also allow recipients that do not want to advertise that they have the award to take advantage of the exemptions for taxes and fees.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Bailey, prime sponsor; Jim Sims, Veterans Legislative Coalition.