SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1966
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 22, 2011
Title: An act relating to clarifying that manure is an agricultural product for the purposes of commercial drivers' licenses.
Brief Description: Clarifying that animal manure is an agricultural product for the purposes of commercial drivers' licenses.
Sponsors: House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Pearson, Haler and Bailey).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/05/11, 96-2.
Committee Activity: Transportation: 3/21/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Katherine Taylor (786-7434)
Background: The operation of commercial motor vehicles is regulated under both state and federal law. In order to operate a commercial motor vehicle in Washington, a person generally must hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) with the applicable endorsements for the vehicle the person is driving. To receive a CDL from Washington, an applicant must be a resident of the state, pass knowledge and skills tests that comply with minimum federal standards, and successfully complete a course of instruction that has been approved by the Director of the Department of Licensing (DOL) or been certified by an employer as having the skills and training necessary to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.
The following operators are exempt from the requirement to hold a CDL in the specified
circumstances:
a firefighter or law enforcement officer operating emergency equipment who has completed an approved driver training course;
the operator of a recreational vehicle used for noncommercial purposes;
the operator of a commercial motor vehicle for military purposes; or
the operator of a farm vehicle controlled and operated by a farmer.
The farm vehicle itself must be used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery, or farm supplies to or from a farm. In addition, the farm vehicle may not be used in the operation of a common or contract motor carrier, and it must be used within 150 miles of the person's farm.
Common carrier and contract carrier includes persons engaged in the business of providing, contracting for, or undertaking to provide transportation of property for compensation over the public highways of Washington as brokers or forwarders.
Summary of Bill: Animal manure and animal manure compost are added to the list of products that may be carried by the operator of a farm vehicle under the CDL exemption for farm operators.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Farmers need to be able to legally move compost and manure, and this should be clarified under law.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Jack Field, WA Cattlemen's Association; Don Bailey, Bailand Farms.