Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SSB 6254

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: Authorizing the issuance of Purple Heart license plates for more than one motor vehicle.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Sheldon, Bailey, Rivers, Roach, O'Ban, Hill, Becker, Miloscia, Angel, Warnick, Honeyford, Padden, Hobbs, Pearson, Hargrove, Braun, Dammeier, Fain, Parlette, Hewitt, Schoesler, Baumgartner, Ericksen, Rolfes, Conway, Mullet and Chase).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

  • Allows individuals qualified to display Purple Heart special license plates to purchase additional plates for use on more than one motor vehicle.

Hearing Date: 2/22/16

Staff: Paul Ingiosi (786-7114).

Background:

A registered owner of a motor vehicle in Washington who has served in the Armed Forces and has been awarded a Purple Heart medal may qualify for a Purple Heart special license plate for use on only one motor vehicle. Purple Heart special license plates must be issued without the payment of an additional special license plate fee. Surviving spouses or domestic partners may also qualify for a Purple Heart special license plate.

Summary of Bill:

Individuals qualified to display Purple Heart special license plates may purchase additional Purple Heart special license plates for use on more than one motor vehicle. In addition to all fees and taxes required to be paid upon application for a vehicle registration, a fee of $40 would be charged for an initial additional Purple Heart special license plate and a $30 fee is charged for renewal of the plate.

Proceeds from the sale of the special license plates will be deposited into the Veterans Stewardship Account to be used by the Department of Veterans Affairs for activities that benefit veterans or their families, including but not limited to, providing programs and services for homeless veterans; establishing memorials honoring veterans; and maintaining a future state veterans' cemetery.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2017.