SPOKANE-- The Washington State Senate has approved a bill that would allow a new form of traction device for vehicle tires called tire socks.
KREM 2's Othello Richards found out that not many people, including local tire stores, have ever heard of them.
Chains and studded tires are designed to help, but they've spun controversy about damage they cause to roads.
Wednesday the Washington state senate approved a bill that will provide drivers with an alternative traction device.
KREM 2 news we called ten tire shops and auto supply stores in Spokane.
Only two of the ten businesses had heard of tire socks.
The tire sock originated overseas in Europe. The textile winter traction device slides over the surface of vehicle tires. The special fabric grips the road.
Before they hit the streets in Washington, the tire sock has more hurdles to overcome.
Approved by the state senate, the house must also weigh in on a bill to allow them. Then we're told Washington state patrol has to first test the device
The state patrol tell us driver may be able to use the tire socks by the next winter season.
