Better make sure that 2009 model is a California car

Remember when the legislature agreed to establish the California emission standards on new automobiles in the 2005 session? Well, as of today those new regulations take effect. Starting with the 2009 models, all new automobiles purchased by "Washington residents" must be certified to meet the California standards. That means if you reside in Washington state, you cannot go over to Idaho to purchase a car that doesn't meet the standards. If you try, you will not be able to register the car in Washington. (BTW, Idaho dealers say they will stock the cleaner burning California cars for their Washington customers). However, there is an exception for people moving to Washington state. They will be able to register their 2009 cars even if they don't meet the standards. Here is a link to the Spokesman Review story on this issue.