Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

HB 1581

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: Modifying the distribution of the thirty dollar vehicle license fee.

Sponsors: Representatives Fey, Rodne, Moscoso, Sells, Hayes and Hurst.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Changes the distribution of the initial and renewal $30 vehicle license fee.

Hearing Date: 2/8/16

Staff: Jerry Long (786-7306).

Background:

Washington requires an initial vehicle license fee and a renewal license fee of $30. The license fee applies to passenger cars and cabs, motor homes, travel trailers, motorcycles, other trailers, and tow trucks.

Prior to Initiative 695 in 1999, the initial vehicle license fee was $27.75 and the renewal was $23.75. The distribution was as follows:

Initiative 695 (I-695) increased the fees to $30 for initial vehicle licenses and renewals. The Legislature, after I-695 was declared unconstitutional, enacted legislation codifying the $30 fee with the following distribution which was the same as I-695:

In 2002 the $30 vehicle license fee was redistributed through legislation which remains currently and is distributed as follows:

Summary of Bill:

The initial and renewal $30 vehicle license fee distribution is changed to be deposited solely to the State Patrol Highway Account.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect January 1, 2016.