The bill seeks to improve traffic safety in Washington State by enhancing compliance, enforcement, and data collection related to vehicle violations. It establishes a grant program through the Department of Commerce to support local initiatives that offer nonpunitive responses to nonmoving violations, particularly for low-income road users. Key provisions include prohibiting peace officers from stopping vehicles for nonmoving violations unless there is an immediate safety threat, mandating detailed reporting of vehicle stops—including demographic information—and ensuring that evidence obtained during stops that violate these provisions is inadmissible in court. The legislation aims to address equity and financial hardship in traffic enforcement while promoting road safety.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws regarding the apprehension and arrest of individuals for traffic violations, specifying that police officers' authority to make warrantless arrests will be subject to new guidelines. It introduces a ten-day grace period during which no criminal citation will be issued after a warning ticket for vehicle defects. The bill emphasizes the liberal construction of its provisions to achieve its intended purpose, stating that it will take precedence over conflicting laws and ensuring that if any part is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be effective. These changes clarify law enforcement authority while adopting a more lenient approach to minor vehicle violations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.32.005, 46.37.005, 46.37.320, 46.37.365, 46.37.470, 46.64.030, 46.64.070
Substitute Bill: 46.32.005, 46.37.005, 46.37.320, 46.37.365, 46.37.470, 46.64.030, 46.64.070