Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Committee |
HB 1542
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: Making possession of motorcycle theft tools a crime.
Sponsors: Representatives Buys, Haler, Johnson and Condotta.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/9/11
Staff: Morgan Powell (786-7119) and Alexa Silver (786-7190).
Background:
Any person who makes, uses, or possesses a motor vehicle theft tool under circumstances showing an intent to use or employ or knowing they will be used or employed in the commission of a motor vehicle theft is guilty of Making or Possessing Motor Vehicle Theft Tools.
Motor vehicle theft tools can include: slim jims, altered or shaved keys, slide hammers, lock pullers, picklocks, or any other implement shown by facts and circumstances to be intended for use in motor vehicle theft. Making or Possessing Motor Vehicle Theft Tools is a gross misdemeanor and punishable by a maximum of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Summary of Bill:
Any person who possesses or lends any device designed to start a motorcycle without a manufacturer's key with the intent to unlawfully take a motorcycle without the consent of the owner is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
Any person who possesses or lends any item of hardware with the intent to unlawfully take a motorcycle without the consent of the owner is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.