SB 5606, sponsored by Sen. John Lovick (D–Mill Creek) is an effort to curb illegal street racing. The Senate will hear this bill this week.

This bill was drafted based on input specifically from the cities of Kent and Tacoma where they have experienced an increase in dangerous illegal street racing.  SB 5606 creates definitions for “off-street facilities” and “drifting” and encourages law enforcement agencies to undertake a public education campaign to inform the public of the unlawful nature of illegal racing. The bill also allows law enforcement to impound vehicles used in street racing and creates procedures for impoundment. The bill would also allow law enforcement to take action in certain circumstances when individuals outside the city’s jurisdiction are encouraging or organizing street racing within the city.

AWC supports this effort to curb this unsafe and illegal activity.

Companion bill, HB 1631, sponsored by Rep. David Hackney (D–Seattle), has not yet been scheduled.

Dates to remember

SB 5606 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Law & Justice Committee on Tuesday, February 14 at 10:30 am and for executive session on Thursday, February 16 at 8 am.