SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6585
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 February 17, 2012
Title: An act relating to the periodic replacement of license plates.
Brief Description: Concerning the periodic replacement of license plates.
Sponsors: Senators Rolfes, Swecker, Haugen, King, Hill, Frockt, Ranker, Fain and Shin; by request of Department of Licensing.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/16/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Amanda Cecil (786-7429)
Background: The Department of Licensing (DOL) must determine how frequently license plates must be replaced to ensure maximum legibility and reflectivity. In doing so DOL must use empirical studies documenting the longevity of the reflective materials. DOL has established, through rule, a seven year replacement period for license plates. The fee for a replacement license plates is due at the time of plate renewal and is as follows:
License Plate Type Fee Per Plate
Moped, Original $1.50
Motorcycle, Replacement $2.00
Passenger car, Replacement $10.00
Trailer, Replacement $10.00
Truck, Replacement $10.00
Summary of Bill: The license plate replacement fee for each license plate that is subject to periodic replacement is due with the annual vehicle registration and is as follows:
License Plate Type Annual Fee Per Plate
Moped $0.25
Motorcycle $0.25
Passenger car $1.25
Trailer $1.25
Truck $1.25
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect on July 1, 2013.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill is the result of a significant amount of complaints from customers about having to replace plates that are still good. This will allow the state to collect revenue on plates that are only in the state for a short period of time and provides more equity to the payers by capturing the cost of the plate each year. Other states use a ten-year replacement cycle for license plates and they are finding that the reflectivity is good for that period of time.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Tony Sermonti, DOL.