Bill > HB1086

This bill addresses the growing problem of motor vehicle chop shops in Washington State, which has one of the highest auto theft rates in the nation. The legislation creates a new criminal offense for knowingly owning, operating, or assisting in the operation of a chop shop, with significant legal consequences. For a first offense, violators will be charged with a class B felony, and for subsequent offenses, it becomes a class A felony. Convicted individuals must pay restitution to the vehicle's lawful owner or their insurance company for financial losses, environmental clean-up costs, and other related expenses. The bill defines a "chop shop" as any location where stolen vehicles or parts are received, concealed, destroyed, or dismantled with the intent to alter or disguise their identity for distribution or sale. Law enforcement can seize vehicles, tools, and other property used in these illegal activities, with exceptions for legitimate vehicle wreckers and scrap processors who unknowingly process a stolen vehicle. The legislation aims to provide law enforcement with more tools to combat auto theft, reduce insurance rates, and hold criminals accountable for destroying vehicles and causing financial harm to vehicle owners.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1086&Year=2025&Initiative=false