Governor signs Mosbrucker bill allowing concurrent license for motorcycles converted to snow bikes

A bill that will allow owners who have converted their motorcycles into snow bikes to hold concurrent motorcycle/snow bike licenses was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Jay Inslee.

The measure was sponsored by 14th District State Rep. Gina Mosbrucker, R-Goldendale, whose district includes Mt. Adams and the Columbia Gorge, where it has become popular for outdoor enthusiasts to convert their motorcycles into snow bikes for use on trails in the winter.

“The State Parks Winter Recreation Program manages 123 winter parks across Washington, with more than 3,300 miles of groomed trails for both motorized and non-motorized activities. Snow biking has become a popular winter sport, but until now, licensing has either focused on motorcycles or snow bikes. But when you have one vehicle that can become both, there's not been a good way to adequately address licensing,” said Mosbrucker.

“This bill will allow the owner to have concurrent licenses for the one vehicle to cover both types of activities,” added Mosbrucker. “The proceeds of the snow bike license will help the state maintain the winter trails. So it's a win for everyone.”

Under House Bill 1436, the owner of a motorcycle may maintain concurrent licenses for the vehicle for use as a motorcycle, or for use as a snow bike. When registered as a motorcycle, the motorcycle registration laws apply, including applicable fees. When registered as a snow bike, the snowmobile registration laws apply, including applicable fees.

The bill takes effect Sept. 1, 2019.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov