HB 2186 proposes changes to requirements to secure loose loads in a vehicle to prevent debris from escaping and causing a safety hazard to other road users. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Christine Kilduff (D–University Place), proposes the following changes to existing law:

• Until July 1, 2022, any vehicle operating on a paved public highway and carrying loose matter (such as dirt, sand, rocks, or gravel), which is susceptible to escaping from the vehicle, must use a cover if the vehicle is so equipped.
• Beginning July 1, 2022, all vehicles must cover loose loads.
• Requires the vehicle operator from which the debris escaped to stay at the scene and be financially responsible for the cleanup. Failure to do so results in escalating misdemeanor changes.

Exemptions

The Washington State Department of Transportation, cities, counties, and the contractors working for such public entities are exempt from these requirements if the vehicle is:

• Applying sand or deicers for snow and ice control;
• Sprinkling water to clean the roadway;
• Performing maintenance in response to emergency events; or
• Performing operations in work zones closed to the public.

The bill also removes the previous exemption that vehicles carrying sand, dirt, or gravel to a landfill or transfer station did not need to cover or secure their loads, as required by local ordinance.

Dates to remember

HB 2186 is scheduled for public hearing on Monday, January 20 in the House Transportation Committee at 3:30 pm.