| Washington State House of Representatives |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Transportation Committee | |
HB 1923
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: Modifying requirements for motor vehicle transporter license applications.
Sponsors: Representatives Hunt and Condotta.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/19/07
Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).
Background:
Tow truck operators who impound vehicles from private or public property and/or tow for law
enforcement agencies are regulated under Chapter 46.55 RCW. Impounds, the taking and
holding of a vehicle in legal custody without the consent of the owner, may only be performed by
registered tow truck operators (RTTOs). If on public property, the impound is at the direction of
a law enforcement officer; if the vehicle is on private property, the impound is at the direction of
the property owner or his or her agent.
Registered tow truck owners are issued a tow truck permit by the Department of Licensing
(DOL), following payment of a $100 per company and $50 per truck fee, plus an inspection by
the Washington State Patrol (WSP). Registered tow truck owners must also file a surety bond of
$5,000 with DOL and meet certain minimum insurance requirements.
Tow trucks are also used by nonregistered operators that, for example, manage gas stations,
repair shops, and auto dealerships. These trucks are used to aid the underlying business and may
not be used for impounding or responding to law enforcement calls. If these nonregistered
operators use their tow trucks to recover disabled vehicles for monetary compensation, they must
have insurance in the same manner and amount as an RTTO and submit to a safety inspection of
his or her truck.
Those who engage in the business of delivering, by the driveaway or towaway methods, vehicles
not owned by the transporter and of the type required to be registered for highway use are
required to obtain a transporter license and plates.
Summary of Bill:
An applicant for a transporter's license is required to indicate if the license will be used to recover
disabled vehicles from a public road or highway for compensation. If so, the applicant will also
be required to indicate if the applicant is a registered tow truck operator.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.