Mirror staff reports:

Washington drivers will now have another traction device to choose from when traveling over one of the state’s many mountain passes during the winter months.

With the passage of Senate Bill 6112, “tire socks” were approved as an acceptable traction device for drivers, adding to the already existing practice of allowing tire chains and studded tires for drivers.

Tire socks were originated in Scandinavia, according to the state, and are used in more than 35 countries already. These socks slide over the surface of the tires and grip the roadway, allowing for safer driving in dangerous weather conditions.

Federal Way’s Sen. Tracey Eide (D-District 30) sponsored the bill, saying she believes they are an extra piece of equipment for drivers that may have some advantages over tire chains and studded tires.

“There’s less noise, they have less vibration, and best of all they are quick and easy to use,” Eide said. “These devices are particularly helpful to those like me who may have difficulty hoisting large, heavy chains over their tires. Most importantly, however, they do less harm to roadways then studs or chains, which tear up asphalt over time, causing millions of dollars in damage.”

The bill was passed with bipartisan support in the Legislature, and awaits the governor’s signature to make it law.