The bill amends existing laws regarding the impoundment of vehicles, specifically addressing situations where vehicles obstruct streetcar operations or pose a threat to public safety. It introduces new provisions that allow cities with populations greater than 700,000 to remove vehicles that obstruct streetcar operations or jeopardize public safety immediately. This is in addition to existing regulations that permit the removal of vehicles in various public locations under specific conditions.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the roles of authorized representatives from cities and regional transit authorities in the impoundment process. It mandates that a signed authorization for impoundment must be provided at the time of the impound by the requesting party, whether it be a law enforcement officer or an authorized city representative. The bill also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a master log of impounded vehicles and prohibits registered tow truck operators from being associated with businesses that primarily authorize vehicle impoundments. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and takes effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 46.55.080
Bill as passed Legislature: 46.55.080
Session law: 46.55.080