SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6468
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 January 28, 2016
Title: An act relating to auto mall directional signs.
Brief Description: Authorizing the installation of auto mall directional signs on state highways.
Sponsors: Senators Rivers and Cleveland.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/27/16.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Brian Connell (786-7346)
Background: Under current state law, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) may place information and directional signs within the right-of-way of the interstate highway system for points of interest including, but not limited to, gas, food, lodging, camping, regional shopping centers and state parks.
WSDOT may erect and maintain directional signs showing distance and direction to points of importance at crossings and intersections of primary and secondary state highways.
Auto malls are not included in current state law as points of interest for which WSDOT may erect and maintain directional signs.
Summary of Bill: WSDOT may erect and maintain auto mall directional signs on any state highway right-of-way if certain criteria are met, as well as erect and maintain supplemental follow-through signs at key decision points if the auto mall is not clearly visible from the highway exit.
WSDOT may collect a reasonable fee for the erection and maintenance of the signs from the vehicle dealers of the auto mall.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: None.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The state will benefit economically from working with car dealers. The bill is not a burden on the state as the auto dealers will pay for the manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of the signs. Informational signs are authorized for other retail business, but not for auto sales. This bill will help auto dealers identify their place of business and assist customers in finding their locations, which are often not visible from the highway.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Rivers, primary sponsor; Jonathan Creedon, President Vancouver Auto Group; Lynda Wilson, State Representative, 17th District.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.