SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6494

BYSenators Patterson, Conner, Metcalf, Hansen, Owen, DeJarnatt, Barr, Bender and Sellar

Revising provisions for motor vehicle license fees.

Senate Committee on Transportation

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 2, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Patterson, Chairman; Nelson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Bender, Conner, DeJarnatt, Hansen, Kiskaddon, McMullen, Metcalf, Owen, Sellar.

Senate Staff:Cathy Mayo (786-7304)

                  February 13, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 12, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The county auditors are the official agents of the Department of Licensing for the registration and renewal of all vehicle licenses.  They presently receive $1 for each transaction.  If the vehicle registration is purchased or renewed at the office of a subagent, the subagent will collect $2 for the subagent fee and $1 for the application fee which is transmitted to the county auditor.

The last fee increase received by the county auditors for conducting the auto licensing service was in 1975 when it was raised from fifty cents to $1.

County officials have indicated that the present $1 fee is not sufficient to cover the operating costs of the motor vehicle licensing program.

SUMMARY:

The application fee for a motor vehicle licensing transaction is increased from $1 to $2 per application in addition to any other fees required by law.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      requested January 28, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Fred Saeger, Washington Association of County Officials (for); Jesus Sanchez, WACO (for)