The Department of Licensing (DOL) collects special license plate fees and, for administrative expenses, deducts an amount not to exceed $12 for new plate issuance, and $2 for renewal. After these expenses are paid, the State Treasurer (Treasurer) deposits the proceeds into the Motor Vehicle Account until the DOL determines that the start-up fee for a special license plate is paid. Once the start-up fee is paid, the Treasurer credits the remaining special license plate fee amounts into an account specified for the sponsoring organization.
The Seattle Sounders FC special license plate is an existing special license plate with a paid start-up fee. Proceeds from the sale of the plate after accounting for administrative expenses go to support the Washington State Mentors to increase the number of mentors within the state and to the Washington State Leadership Board to develop educational, veterans, international relations, and civics projects, and to recognize the outstanding public service of individuals or groups in the State of Washington.
Proceeds from the sale of the Seattle Sounders FC special license plate after accounting for administrative expenses, are directed to the RAVE Foundation, the official charitable arm of the Seattle Sounders FC.
(In support) This bill does not create a special license plate, but changes the beneficiary to the RAVE Foundation. The RAVE Foundation is the charitable foundation of the Seattle Sounders FC. Proceeds from the sale of the Seattle Sounders FC special license plate ought to go to the efforts of the associated 501(c)(3) foundation. Receipt of funding outside of fundraising shows state support for the foundation's goal of 26 free play fields prior to the FIFA World Cup in 2026. Fields are built in consultation with local communities, with a focus on underserved communities.
(Opposed) None.
Representative David Hackney, prime sponsor; and Fred Mendoza, RAVE Foundation.