SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6416

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.

Background: The Department of Licensing (DOL) issues special vehicle license plates that may be used in lieu of standard plates. A governmental or nonprofit sponsoring organization seeking to sponsor a special plate either submits an application to the DOL or requests legislation to create the special plate. The sponsoring organization seeking to sponsor the special plate is required to reimburse the DOL for the costs of establishing the new special plate.

For special license plates that are enacted by the Legislature, a sponsoring organization must, within 30 days of enactment, submit prepayment of all start-up costs to the DOL. If the sponsoring organization is not able to meet the prepayment requirement, revenues generated from the sale of the special license plate are first used to pay off any costs associated with establishing the new plate. The sponsoring organization must also provide a proposed license plate design to the DOL. Additionally, the sponsoring organization must submit an annual financial report to the DOL detailing actual revenues generated from the sale of the special license plate. The reports are reviewed, approved, and presented to the Joint Transportation Committee.

The DOL collects special license plate fees, and for administrative expenses, deducts an amount not to exceed $12 for new plate issuance and $2 for renewal. After these expenses are paid, the State Treasurer deposits the proceeds into the Motor Vehicle Account until the DOL determines the start-up costs for a special license plate are paid.

Summary of Bill: The firefighter memorial special license plates, which would honor firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty, are created. The plate would display a symbol or artwork, approved by the DOL in rule, honoring firefighters in Washington killed in the line of duty. 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 a firefighter memorial special license plate and a $30 fee is charged for renewal of the special license plate.

After the costs associated with establishing the special license plates are recovered, proceeds from the sale of the firefighter memorial special license plates will go to fund a memorial on the state capitol grounds to honor fallen firefighters and provide support and assistance to survivors and families of fallen firefighters in Washington.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: In Washington, there is no firefighter memorial on our capitol grounds. The firefighter memorial plate will help us remember and provide assistance to survivors. There was a firefighter memorial on the capitol grounds before 2001. There is now a foundation that will raise money for a memorial and its maintenance. It is a shame that there is currently no memorial to those that serve its citizens and give the ultimate sacrifice. This is a long time coming.