| Washington State House of Representatives |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Transportation Committee | |
HB 1344
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Providing a window tint exemption for law enforcement vehicles.
Sponsors: Representatives Lovick, Rodne, Hudgins, Upthegrove and Campbell; by request of Washington State Patrol.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/13/07
Staff: Jerry Long (786-7306).
Background:
Current law restricts film sunscreening or coloring material, also referred to as "window tinting,"
that may be applied to the windows of a motor vehicle. Clear film sunscreening material that
reduces or eliminates ultraviolet light may be applied to windshields. Tinting applied to the
windows of motor vehicles, except the windshield, must allow minimum light transmission of 35
percent, as compared to clear glass. Tinting with a greater degree of light reduction is permitted
on the top six-inch area of a vehicle's windshield, and on all windows and the top six inches of
the windshield for vehicles operated by, or carrying, a person with a documented physical or
medical need for protection from sunlight exposure. A vehicle with tinted rear or side windows
must have left and right outside mirrors that reflect to the driver a view of at least 200 feet to the
rear of the vehicle. All windows behind the driver on limousines and passenger buses may be
darker under certain conditions.
Three types of tinting materials are prohibited: 1) mirror finish products; 2) red, gold, yellow
or black material; and 3) liquid pre-application material.
Professional tinting installers must apply a sticker to the driver's door post indicating that the
tinting meets state requirements.
Operating a motor vehicle equipped with prohibited window tinting is a traffic infraction.
Summary of Bill:
The side and rear windows of law enforcement vehicles are exempt from the minimum light
restriction of 35 percent.
When law enforcement vehicles are sold to private individuals, the film sunscreening or coloring
material must comply with the minimum light restriction of 35 percent or documentation must be
provided to the buyer communicating that the windows must comply with the minimum of 35
percent before operation of the vehicle.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.