HB 1816 - DIGEST

     Provides that, following a claim that property in a pawnbroker's or second-hand dealer's possession is stolen, made by a person claiming to be the rightful owner of the property, the pawnbroker or second-hand dealer shall hold the property intact and safe from alteration, damage, or commingling.

     Declares that, unless the pawnbroker or second-hand dealer is holding the property pursuant to RCW 19.60.045, the pawnbroker or second-hand dealer shall not release the property for sixty days from the date of the claim of ownership unless the person making the claim consents to the release in writing.

     Provides that, within ten days from the date of the claim of ownership, the pawnbroker or second-hand dealer shall either:  (1) Promptly return the property to the person making the claim of ownership; or

     (2) notify the person making the claim of ownership in writing of the pawnbroker's or second-hand dealer's intent to retain possession of the property.