The bill amends RCW 46.61.655 to enhance regulations regarding the securing of vehicle loads on public highways in Washington State. It stipulates that no vehicle may be driven unless its load is secured to prevent any part from dropping or escaping, with specific exceptions for sand used for traction. Additionally, it mandates that any vehicle carrying dirt, sand, or gravel must cover these loads to prevent spillage unless a certain freeboard is maintained. The bill also introduces new requirements for cleaning vehicles of debris before operating on paved highways, particularly for those being towed on a trailer.

Furthermore, the bill establishes penalties for failing to secure loads, categorizing violations into first and second-degree offenses based on the resulting harm or damage. A first-degree violation, which involves substantial bodily harm, is classified as a gross misdemeanor, while a second-degree violation, which results in property damage, is classified as a misdemeanor. If the failure to secure a load does not meet the criteria for these degrees, it is considered an infraction. The Washington State Patrol is granted the authority to create rules to enforce these provisions effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 46.61.655