SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6429

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 Summary of Bill

Allows an individual to receive a developmentally disabled designation on a driver's license or identicard.

Background: The State Department of Licensing (DOL) issues driver's licenses and identicards that are valid for up to six years. The fee for a six-year driver's license or indenticard is $54.

The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) assists individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and their families to obtain services and support based on individual preferences, capabilities, and needs. Eligibility for DDA services depends on whether the client has a qualified developmental disability, has a functional need, and meets certain income and asset standards.

Summary of Bill: A developmentally disabled person may apply to DOL to obtain a DD designation on a driver's license or identicard. The DD designation must be provided to eligible individuals at no additional cost beyond regular driver's license or identicard fees.

To obtain the DD designation, an individual must provide documentation from DSHS indicating current eligibility for DD services or alternate forms of documentation which demonstrate that the individual has a developmental disability.

DOL, jointly with DSHS, must develop procedures to allow individuals to apply for the DD designation in the most efficient and convenient manner possible. The procedures must include public information regarding the ability to apply for the DD designation on a driver's license or identicard.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Sometimes DD individuals may respond to a medical situation differently or are non-verbal. This will allow a DD individual to get the designation and it will assist medical professionals and first responders in responding appropriately. This will help with crisis situations to give an indication to law enforcement and other first responders. This will provide an extra tool in parents’ tool box to help their child in those types of situation. The identicard is voluntary and not a mandate.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Sharon Brown, Prime Sponsor; Sharon Adolphson, Benton Franklin Parent Coalition; Debbie Chapman, Grant, Adams & Lincoln Parent Coalition; Diana Stadden, The Arc of Washington State.