SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1306
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. |
As of March 10, 2011
Title: An act relating to removing the expiration date for exempting applicants who operate commercial motor vehicles for agribusiness purposes from certain commercial driver's license requirements.
Brief Description: Removing the expiration date for exempting applicants who operate commercial motor vehicles for agribusiness purposes from certain commercial driver's license requirements.
Sponsors: Representatives Lytton, Bailey, Dahlquist, Billig, Clibborn, Armstrong, McCune, Blake, Liias, Takko, Chandler, Johnson, Frockt, Fitzgibbon and Smith.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/14/11, 93-1.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/09/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)
Background: Generally, an applicant for a commercial driver's license (CDL) must either complete a course of instruction in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle or be certified by the applicant's employer as having the skills and training necessary to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. However, only until July 1, 2011, a CDL applicant who operates a commercial motor vehicle for agribusiness purposes is exempt from both the course of instruction and employer certification requirements. Agribusiness means a private carrier who in the normal course of business primarily transports farm equipment, agricultural inputs, unprocessed agricultural commodities produced by farmers, or any combination of these items.
Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.
Summary of Bill (Proposed Amendment): The July 1, 2011, expiration of the agribusiness exemption related to the CDL course of instruction and employer certification requirements is removed. The Department of Licensing must notify the Legislature if the federal government takes action affecting the agribusiness exemption.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on July 1, 2011.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The current exemption for agribusiness purposes, enacted in 2009, has served its purpose well. Unlike most businesses, agribusinesses have a very short time-period to amortize expenses related to the instruction courses over a one-year period. Agribusinesses are subject to all other commercial driver's license requirements, including taking both the written and driving exams.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Lytton, prime sponsor; Tom McBride, Far West Agribusiness Assn.