SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5267

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 5, 2019

Title: An act relating to exempting certain marine cargo from vehicle registrations.

Brief Description: Exempting certain marine cargo from vehicle registrations.

Sponsors: Senators Saldaña, Darneille, Kuderer, O'Ban, King and Randall.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/28/19.

Brief Summary of Bill

Exempts vehicles shipped as marine cargo that are travelling within a single port area from vehicle registration requirements.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Staff: Bryon Moore (786-7726)

Background: Vehicles, unless specifically exempt, must be registered with the state to be operated on public roadways. It is unlawful for a person to operate any vehicle on public highways in Washington without a current and proper vehicle registration and without displaying license plates on the vehicle. Vehicle registrations are issued by the Department of Licensing (DOL), county auditors or other agents, or subagents appointed by DOL, and are typically valid for one year from the date of purchase. Registrations are indicated with dated license tabs that are placed in a designated area on the license plate.

Current law provides registration exemptions for certain types of vehicles.

Summary of Bill: The list of vehicles exempted from DOL registration requirements is expanded to include vehicles shipped as marine cargo travelling within the port area. The exemption only applies to vehicles shipped as marine cargo to and from storage areas or terminals, and are crossing public streets of a single port.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This legislation is about clarifying existing statute around the shipment of automobiles to and from the ports. The transport of automobiles supports high paying jobs and increased state and local government tax revenues. This bill codifies the existing practice and makes a clarification before any actual issues develop around the registration requirements for these types of vehicles.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Rebecca Saldaña, Prime Sponsor; Michael Transue, Tacoma Pierce County Chamber and Global Automakers; Sean Eagan, The Northwest Seaport Alliance; Gordon Baxter, International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.