SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5670

BYSenators Bender, Conner and Rasmussen

Requiring service stations to provide certain facilities.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):

Senate Staff:Brad Lovaas (786-7307)

FEBRUARY 25, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In recent years there has been an increase in businesses that sell motor vehicle fuel as well as provide other goods and services.  These businesses generally do not provide the traditional services offered by gas stations, such as restrooms, window washing equipment, air hoses and water hoses.  Some operators of gas stations feel that the number of motorists who come to their stations for these services without purchasing motor vehicle fuel has increased.

The State Building Code (Code) was enacted to promote the health, welfare, and safety of the users of buildings and structures in the state.  The Code requires minimum performance standards for construction and is enforced by county and city building departments.  There are currently no provisions in the State Building Code regulating facilities which sell motor vehicle fuel.

The Director of the Department of Agriculture is currently responsible under the 1969 Weights and Measures Act for inspecting motor vehicle fuel pumps.

SUMMARY:

Any retail business that derives any income from the sale of motor vehicle fuel shall provide:  (1) Vehicle window washing equipment in the pump area; and (2) by July 1, 1988, an air hose and a water hose in the pump area.

After January 1, 1988, all new or remodeled facilities of retail businesses that derive any income from the sale of motor vehicle fuel shall provide at least one toilet facility with handwashing equipment available for a patron's use.

Cities and counties are authorized to further define these minimum standards and implement them by ordinance or resolution.

The Director of the Department of Agriculture shall investigate complaints of alleged violations of this act or its implementing ordinances and resolutions.

Fiscal Note:      none requested