A proposal from Sen. Sharon Shewmake (D–Bellingham) updates regulations related to debris escaping from vehicles on public highways.

SB 5215 requires any vehicle operating on a paved public highway with a load of dirt, sand, pebbles, cobbles, gravel, or any aggregate materials susceptible to escaping from the vehicle must use a covering, if so equipped. Beginning in 2028, the covering is required.

The state, counties, cities, PUDs, and any of their contractors are exempt from the new requirement if the vehicle is:

• Applying sand or deicers for snow and ice control and to enhance traction;
• Sprinkling water or other substances to maintain or clean 23 the roadway;
• Performing maintenance operations in response to emergency events; of
• Performing operations within work zones where roads or sections of roads are closed to the public.

Drivers that violate the law must contact the appropriate officials to initiate a cleanup process, remain at the scene until cleanup is complete, and will be held responsible for the costs associated with debris cleanup. Violation of the new requirements is an infraction in most cases.

State patrol or, when appropriate, local law enforcement must enforce the requirement.

Please contact AWC staff if your city has concerns or other feedback on this legislation.

Date to remember

SB 5215 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Transportation Committee on January 20 at 4 pm.