(1) An annual excise tax is hereby imposed for the privilege of using any aircraft in the state. A current certificate of air worthiness with a current inspection date from the appropriate federal agency and/or the purchase of aviation fuel shall constitute the necessary evidence of aircraft use or intended use. The tax shall be collected annually or under a staggered collection schedule as required by the secretary by rule. No additional tax shall be imposed under this chapter upon any aircraft upon the transfer of ownership thereof, if the tax imposed by this chapter with respect to such aircraft has already been paid for the year in which transfer of ownership occurs. A violation of this subsection is a misdemeanor punishable as provided under chapter 9A.20 RCW.

     (2) Persons who are required to register aircraft under chapter 47.68 RCW and who register aircraft in another state or foreign country and avoid the Washington aircraft excise tax are liable for such unpaid excise tax. A violation of this subsection is a gross misdemeanor.

     The department of revenue may assess and collect the unpaid excise tax under chapter 82.32 RCW, including the penalties and interest provided in chapter 82.32 RCW.

     (3) Except as provided under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, a violation of this chapter is a misdemeanor punishable as provided in chapter 9A.20 RCW.

[2000 c 229 § 4; 1999 c 277 § 7; 1993 c 238 § 5; 1992 c 154 § 1; 1987 c 220 § 6; 1983 c 7 § 27; 1979 c 158 § 240; 1967 ex.s. c 149 § 27; 1967 ex.s. c 9 § 2; 1961 c 15 § 82.48.020. Prior: 1949 c 49 § 2; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 11219-34.]

NOTES:

     Effective date -- 2000 c 229: See note following RCW 46.16A.030.

     Effective date -- 1992 c 154: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1992." [1992 c 154 § 7.]

     Severability -- 1987 c 220: See note following RCW 47.68.230.

     Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 c 7: See notes following RCW 82.08.020.