SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6120

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Transportation, January 26, 2016

Title: An act relating to providing a registration exemption for certain vessels.

Brief Description: Providing a registration exemption for certain vessels.

Sponsors: Senator Mullet.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/19/16, 1/26/16 [DPS].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6120 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

Signed by Senators King, Chair; Fain, Vice Chair, Budget; Hobbs, Ranking Minority Member; Liias, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Carlyle, Cleveland, Ericksen, Jayapal, Litzow, Miloscia, Rivers, Sheldon and Takko.

Staff: Kellee Keegan (786-7429)

Background: State law defines a vessel as watercraft, other than seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water.

Vessel registration. Within the first 60 days of use in Washington State waters, a vessel must be registered at the Department of Licensing, a county auditor's office, or a licensing subagent's office. Exemptions may be made if the vessel:

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Recommended Substitute): An exemption to the vessel registration requirement is provided for vessels with motors that draw 250 watts (0.33 mechanical horsepower) or less that propel the vehicle no faster than 10 miles per hour.

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: This is a lightweight motor for boats that provides a paddle-like experience for people who have mobility issues.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Mark Mullet, prime sponsor; and Joe Grez, PropEle Electric Boat Motors Inc. preseident.