SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5641

                    As of February 6, 1997

Title:  An act relating to motor vehicle warranties.

Brief Description:  Declaring that a new vehicle used as a mobile dwelling, office, or commercial space is covered under Washington's motor vehicle warranty law.

Sponsors:  Senators Roach, Heavey and Fraser.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Commerce & Labor:  2/10/97.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff:  Aurora Almeda (786-7488)

Background:  Under current law, the warranty for new motor vehicles applies to the self-propelled vehicle and chassis of a new motor home.  The warranty requires a manufacturer, at the written request of the consumer, to replace or repurchase the new motor vehicle if the manufacturer is unable to repair or correct the defect.  The warranty does not apply to those portions of the motor home designated, used, or maintained primarily as a mobile dwelling, office, or commercial space.

Concern has been expressed by some consumers about the exclusion of the dwelling portion from the warranty for a new motor home.

Summary of Bill:  The warranty for new motor vehicles applies to portions of the motor home designated, used, or maintained primarily as a mobile dwelling, office, or commercial space.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 6, 1997.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.