Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1736

Introduced
2/2/23  
Refer
2/2/23  
Report Pass
2/23/23  
Refer
2/24/23  
Engrossed
3/4/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Report Pass
3/27/23  
Enrolled
4/19/23  

Caption

Revised for 1st Substitute: Requiring the department of licensing to request motor vehicle odometer readings upon vehicle registration.Original: Requiring the department of licensing to collect vehicle odometer readings at the time of original vehicle registration and registration renewal.

Impact

The bill is set to influence state laws pertaining to vehicle registration processes. By standardizing the collection of odometer readings, the state hopes to enhance data accuracy, which can lead to better tracking of vehicle usage patterns. This initiative is particularly relevant in the context of considerations around vehicle taxation based on mileage, which could potentially address environmental concerns by incentivizing the use of more efficient vehicles through better data.

Summary

House Bill 1736 aims to enhance the vehicle registration process by requiring the Department of Licensing to collect motor vehicle odometer readings upon vehicle registration. Initially, the bill mandated the collection of odometer information at both the time of original registration and during subsequent registration renewals. The intent behind this legislation is to improve record-keeping related to vehicle mileage, which can be crucial for various regulatory purposes including emissions testing and taxation.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards HB 1736 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents, who view the bill as a necessary step towards modernizing vehicle regulations and improving government efficiency in managing vehicle data. However, there are concerns expressed by some stakeholders regarding the administrative burden this requirement might impose on both the Department of Licensing and vehicle owners. This reflects a broader apprehension over government regulation versus personal privacy.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the implications of mandating odometer readings. Some critics argue that the requirement could be seen as an invasion of privacy, as it involves tracking vehicle usage more closely. Additionally, questions have been raised about the potential costs associated with implementing such a system versus the benefits it would yield. Despite these concerns, the bill seems to have garnered enough support to advance through the legislative process, including a narrow passage in the House with a vote tally of 52 yeas to 44 nays.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6288

Requiring headlight use on motor vehicles at all times.

WA SB5573

Expanding vehicle licensing options to include quarterly or semiannual registrations.

WA LB207

Provide a registration fee under the Motor Vehicle Registration Act for certain commercially registered alternative fuel vehicles

WA LB688

State intent to appropriate funds to the Department of Motor Vehicles

WA HB3179

Motor vehicles; defining terms; requiring registration for certain vehicles; effective date.

WA LB98

Redefine all-terrain vehicle and utility-type vehicle in the Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Act, the Motor Vehicle Registration Act, and the Nebraska Rules of the Road

WA LB114

Change provisions relating to Department of Motor Vehicles fees

WA LB97

Change provisions relating to deferred judgments, the State Boat Act, the Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Act, the Motor Vehicle Registration Act, the Motor Vehicle Operator’s License Act, the Nebraska Rules of the Road, the Department of Motor Vehicles Cash Fund, the Uniform Motor Vehicle Records Disclosure Act, the Motor Carrier Services Division Distributive Fund, and the State Treasurer

WA LB136

Change provisions relating to the Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Act, the Motor Vehicle Registration Act, and the Motor Vehicle Operator's License Act

WA HB1540

Requiring driver training curriculum to include instruction on sharing the road with large vehicles, including commercial motor vehicles and buses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.