SEATTLE — New legislation was introduced Tuesday aimed at preventing illegal street racing events in Seattle.
Under the legislation, registered owners of vehicles involved in the illegal events would be fined $500. It would also expand the definition of street racing to include drifting and "street takeover" events, according to Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison, who introduced the legislation.
“The new civil infraction will give police a tool to hold vehicle owners accountable when their cars are used at these events,” Davison said in a press release.
Davison cited an increase in these events and related violence as the reason for the proposal.
Last month, there was an illegal street racing event in Lower Queen Anne that drew a crowd of over 500 people and 150 vehicles. A nearby business owner described the scene as "scary" and "really chaotic."
In July 2023, four people were shot during one of these events in Capitol Hill.
“Safety is our highest priority, and we know that street racing and street takeovers are not only illegal but dangerous for our community," Mayor Bruce Harrell said. "This legislation would add a needed tool in our public safety toolkit to help protect residents, make our streets safer, and deter these harmful events."
The proposed bill will now be reviewed by the Seattle City Council's Public Safety Committee.
Earlier this year, additional legislation went into effect to deter illegal street racing events.
Senate Bill 5606 changed the definition of street racing and imposed harsher punishments. Under the new law, cars can be impounded for 72 hours after the first offense of illegal street racing. In the second offense, the car would be forfeited after a conviction.
Under the law, anyone who organizes or participates in an illegal street race can be charged with aiding and abetting.