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Bill

Bill

SB 5636

Creating Mount St. Helens special license plates.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marcus Riccelli and 2 co-sponsors

Washington bill authorizes special Mount St. Helens license plates, generating state revenue while promoting the iconic volcano landmark through vehicle displays.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5636

Legislative bill overview

SB 5636 establishes special license plates featuring Mount St. Helens imagery for Washington state vehicles. The bill would allow the Department of Licensing to design and issue these commemorative plates to interested drivers, likely generating revenue through premium plate fees that typically fund designated causes or programs.

Why is this important

Special license plates serve dual purposes: they generate revenue for state programs while allowing residents to display regional pride and support specific causes. Mount St. Helens, a iconic Washington landmark with significant geological and cultural importance, could benefit from increased visibility and associated funding through this program.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation specifics – The bill's language regarding where plate revenue directs funds is unclear; stakeholders will want to know if proceeds support volcano research, state parks, Mount St. Helens recovery efforts, or general transportation budgets
  • Administrative costs – Special plates require separate design, production, and inventory management; critics may question whether revenue exceeds operational expenses
  • Proliferation concerns – Washington currently issues numerous special plates; some argue this dilutes their distinctiveness and creates unnecessary program complexity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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