Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
State Government Committee

HB 1899

Brief Description:  Prohibiting the use of social security numbers and drivers' license numbers in professional licenses.

Sponsors:  Representatives Bush, McIntire, Cairnes, Keiser, DeBolt, Hatfield, Benson, Santos, Roach, Miloscia, Barlean, Lovick, Casada, O'Brien, Morell, Simpson, Mielke, Jackley, Pearson, Romero, Eickmeyer, Ruderman, Sump, Linville, D. Schmidt, Campbell, Esser, Hunt, Hurst and Schual‑Berke.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Prohibits the use of social security numbers and driver=s license numbers as part of a professional license.

Hearing Date:  2/19/01

Staff:  Jim Morishima (786‑7191).

Background: 

Federal law (the Privacy Act of 1974) requires all federal and state agencies requesting the disclosure of an individual's Social Security number to notify the individual of the following:  (1) whether disclosure of the number is required or optional; (2) which law or regulation permits the agency to request disclosure of the number; and (3) how the number will be used.  The Privacy Act of 1974 also prohibits federal and state agencies from denying any right, benefit, or privilege to an individual because of the individual's refusal to disclose his or her Social Security number unless the disclosure is required by federal statute.

In order to qualify for federal welfare funds, a state must collect the Social Security numbers of any applicant for a professional license, a driver's license, an occupational license, a recreational license, or a marriage license.

Summary of Bill: 

Social security numbers and drivers= license numbers may not be used as part of a professional license.

Rulemaking Authority:  No express authority.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 16, 2001.

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