SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6123

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.

Sponsors: Senators Hatfield, Sheldon, Swecker, Hargrove, Carrell, Conway, Becker, King, Benton, Delvin, Fain, Ericksen, Ranker, Honeyford, Schoesler, Pridemore, Roach, Stevens and Chase.

Background: The Department of Licensing (DOL) issues special vehicle license plates that may be used in lieu of standard plates. A governmental or nonprofit sponsoring organization seeking to sponsor a special plate either submits an application to DOL or requests legislation to create the special plate.

Revenues generated from the sale of a special license plate are first used to reimburse the motor vehicle account for any costs associated with establishing the new plate. After DOL determines that the state has been reimbursed for the cost of implementing the new plate, the remaining revenues are directed to various accounts and uses prescribed by the specific plate. DOL may also deduct up to $12 for an original issue and $2 for the renewal of a special plate to cover administration and collection expenses.

There is a moratorium on the issuance of new special license plates until July 1, 2013.

Summary of Bill: The National Rifle Association (NRA) special license plate, displaying the NRA logo, is created. In addition to all fees and taxes that are required to be paid for a vehicle registration, a fee of $40 is charged for an original issue NRA special license plate, and a $30 fee is charged for renewal of a special license plate.

Proceeds from the NRA special license plate are to support firearm safety and education as part of the Department of Fish and Wildlife's (DFW) hunter education training program.

The NRA special license plate is exempt from the temporary moratorium on special license plates.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The name might make it sound controversial but it provides funds to an important safety program. This provides needed funds for the fire arm safety and education which is one to the main goals of the NRA. This program provides training for 16,000 people each year, utilizing 800 volunteers. This bill will continue to ensure that this no cost or low cost service continues. Currently, the state trains the volunteers and provides the training materials. More and more of this training is used by the general public for firearm safety, not just hunters.