SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6330

BYSenators Halsan, Pullen and Conner

Authorizing personalized license plates for the Civil Air Patrol.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 27, 1988

Senate Staff:Cathy Mayo (786-7304)

AS OF JANUARY 28, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Civil Air Patrol is an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force established in law in 1941.  Eight months later it was declared by law to be a civic nonprofit corporation.  As a result of this action, the Civil Air Patrol became ineligible for full federal assistance; however, because of its quasi-official designation it was not eligible for community assistance.

The CAP is a volunteer public service organization that fills a vital need in Washington State.  It assists the Aeronautics Division of the state Department of Transportation in all air search and rescue operations.  The organization's eleven aircraft and 1,596 members make themselves available for a wide variety of public service requests throughout the state, supported in large part by membership dues of $37 per year per person.

The CAP works with the state Department of Emergency Services in damage assessments from disasters.  It responds to requests from the U.S. Coast Guard for drug reconnaissance over water; to law enforcement for locating marijuana sites; and to fire patrols for fire reconnaissance.  There are 36 Civil Air Patrol squadrons throughout the state.

SUMMARY:

In recognition of the life-saving services performed by the Civil Air Patrol, a personalized license plate is authorized for members of the organization.

The special license plate may be purchased for the regular license fee plus an additional fee of $30 for initial issuance and $20 for renewal. 

The plates shall be issued upon payment of fees and furnishing proof satisfactory to the Department of Licensing that the applicant is a member of the Civil Air Patrol.

The plates shall remain with the recipient upon sale or transfer of the vehicle and may be used on another vehicle registered to the individual.

The recipient shall return the special plate to the Department upon separation from the Civil Air Patrol.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      requested January 21, 1988