Bill Allows Police To Seize Cars Of Prostitutes’ Patrons

Anyone thinking of using his car to pick up a prostitute had better think twice.

The Senate approved a bill Wednesday to allow police who arrest people who patronize prostitutes to impound their vehicles if they were used in committing the crime. Passage in the House also is expected.

“This will give police another tool in the battle against prostitution,” said Rep. Jeanne Kohl, D-Seattle. “This bill gives us a deterrent without cost to the taxpayer.”

Forty-three of Kohl’s Senate colleagues also thought it was a good idea, but three didn’t.

Sen. Dwight Pelz, D-Seattle, complained that the bill sets different standards for different offenses.

“If you’re caught driving while drunk, they don’t impound your car. After you sober up, you can go back and get it,” he said.

“This bill sets up a pre-conviction,” said Rep. Mike Heavey, D-Seattle. “You’re penalizing a person before he’s convicted.”

Joining Pelz and Heavey in voting against the bill was Sen. Bob Morton, R-Orient. Morton did not speak during the brief debate.

Other bills approved by the Senate and sent to the House for further action were:

SB5122, authorizing Benton County to add a judge to its twojudge District Court. The bill specifies that Benton County would be responsible for the salary of the third judge and other expenses incurred by enlarging the court.

SB5002, making it a felony to assault nurses or other health care providers while they are carrying out their duties.

Both bills were approved on unanimous votes.