Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1103

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 the use of television viewers in motor vehicles.

Sponsors: Representatives Kristiansen, Morris and Armstrong.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Removes the requirement that equipment capable of receiving television broadcasts must be located behind the back of the drivers seat.

  • Prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle with equipment capable of receiving a television broadcast when moving images are visible to the driver.

Hearing Date: 1/20/11

Staff: Jerry Long (786-7306).

Background:

Under current law, the use of equipment that is capable of receiving a television broadcast in a motor vehicle cannot be located forward of the back of the driver's seat or which is visible to the driver while operating a motor vehicle.

Summary of Bill:

The bill removes the requirement that the equipment capable of receiving a television broadcast be located at any point behind the driver's seat. It requires that no person will drive a motor vehicle with equipment capable of receiving a television broadcast when the moving images are visible to the driver while the motor vehicle is in motion.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.