title: RCW 29B.30.080

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the responsibility for compliance with RCW 29B.30.050 through 29B.30.070 shall be with the sponsor of the political advertising and not with the broadcasting station or other medium.
(2) If a broadcasting station or other medium changes the content of a political advertisement, the station or medium shall be responsible for any failure of the advertisement to comply with RCW 29B.30.050 through 29B.30.070 that results from that change.
[ 2024 c 164 s 440; 2010 c 204 s 507; 1984 c 216 s 4. Formerly RCW 42.17A.340, 42.17.540.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.

catchline: Responsibility for compliance.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 29B.30.090

text:
(1) Each commercial advertiser who has accepted or provided political advertising or electioneering communications during the election campaign shall maintain current books of account and related materials as provided by rule that shall be open for public inspection during normal business hours during the campaign and for a period of no less than five years after the date of the applicable election. The documents and books of account shall specify:
(a) The names and addresses of persons from whom it accepted political advertising or electioneering communications;
(b) The exact nature and extent of the services rendered; and
(c) The total cost and the manner of payment for the services.
(2) At the request of the commission, each commercial advertiser required to comply with subsection (1) of this section shall provide to the commission copies of the information that must be maintained and be open for public inspection pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.
[ 2024 c 164 s 441; 2019 c 428 s 26; 2010 c 204 s 508; 2005 c 445 s 8; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 5; 1973 c 1 s 11 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.345, 42.17.110.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective dates—2005 c 445: See note following RCW 29B.30.010.
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: See note following RCW 29B.60.020.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Commercial advertisers—Public inspection of documents—Copies to commission.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 29B.30.100

text:
(1) For any requirement to include the top five contributors under RCW 29B.30.050 or any other provision of this title, the sponsor must identify the five persons or entities making the largest contributions to the sponsor in excess of the threshold aggregate value to be considered an independent expenditure in an election for public office under RCW 29B.10.310(1)(d) reportable under this title during the 12-month period preceding the date on which the advertisement is initially to be published or otherwise presented to the public.
(2) If one or more of the top five contributors identified under subsection (1) of this section is a political committee, the top three contributors to each of those political committees during the same period must then be identified, and so on, until the individuals or entities other than political committees with the largest aggregate contributions to each political committee identified under subsection (1) of this section have also been identified. The sponsor must identify the three individuals or entities, not including political committees, who made the largest aggregate contributions to any political committee identified under subsection (1) of this section in excess of the threshold aggregate value to be considered an independent expenditure in an election for public office under RCW 29B.10.310(1)(d) reportable under this title during the same period, and the names of those individuals or entities must be displayed in the advertisement alongside the statement "Top Three Donors to PAC Contributors."
(3) Contributions to the sponsor or a political committee that are earmarked, tracked, and used for purposes other than the advertisement in question should not be counted in identifying the top five contributors under subsection (1) of this section or the top three contributors under subsection (2) of this section.
(4) The sponsor shall not be liable for a violation of this section that occurs because a contribution to any political committee identified under subsection (1) of this section has not been reported to the commission.
(5) The commission is authorized to adopt rules, as needed, to prevent ways to circumvent the purposes of the required disclosures in this section to inform voters about the individuals and entities sponsoring political advertisements.
[ 2024 c 164 s 442; 2019 c 261 s 2. Formerly RCW 42.17A.350.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 261: "The legislature finds that the public has the right to know who is contributing to election campaigns in Washington state and that campaign finance disclosure deters corruption, increases public confidence in Washington state elections, raises the level of debate, and strengthens our representative democracy.
The legislature finds that campaign finance disclosure is overwhelmingly supported by the citizens of Washington state as evidenced by the two initiatives that largely established Washington's current system. Both passed with more than seventy-two percent of the popular vote, as well as winning margins in every county in the state.
One of the cornerstones of Washington state's campaign finance disclosure laws is the requirement that political advertisements disclose the sponsor and the sponsor's top five donors. Many political action committees have avoided this important transparency requirement by funneling money from political action committee to political action committee so the top five donors listed are deceptive political action committee names rather than the real donors. The legislature finds that this practice, sometimes called "gray money" or "donor washing," undermines the intent of Washington state's campaign finance laws and impairs the transparency required for fair elections and a healthy democracy.
Therefore, the legislature intends to close this disclosure loophole, increase transparency and accountability, raise the level of discourse, deter corruption, and strengthen confidence in the election process by prohibiting political committees from receiving an overwhelming majority of their funds from one or a combination of political committees." [ 2019 c 261 s 1.]

catchline: Top five contributors to political advertisement.


title: RCW 29B.35.010

text:
(1) For purposes of this section "synthetic media" means an image, an audio recording, or a video recording of an individual's appearance, speech, or conduct that has been intentionally manipulated with the use of generative adversarial network techniques or other digital technology in a manner to create a realistic but false image, audio, or video that produces:
(a) A depiction that to a reasonable individual is of a real individual in appearance, action, or speech that did not actually occur in reality; and
(b) A fundamentally different understanding or impression of the appearance, action, or speech than a reasonable person would have from the unaltered, original version of the image, audio recording, or video recording.
(2) A candidate whose appearance, action, or speech is altered through the use of a synthetic media in an electioneering communication may seek injunctive or other equitable relief prohibiting the publication of such synthetic media.
(3) A candidate whose appearance, action, or speech is altered through the use of a synthetic media in an electioneering communication may bring an action for general or special damages against the sponsor. The court may also award a prevailing party reasonable attorneys' fees and costs. This subsection does not limit or preclude a plaintiff from securing or recovering any other available remedy.
(4) It is an affirmative defense for any action brought under this section that the electioneering communication containing a synthetic media includes a disclosure stating, "This (image/video/audio) has been manipulated," in the following manner:
(a) For visual media, the text of the disclosure must appear in size easily readable by the average viewer and no smaller than the largest font size of other text appearing in the visual media. If the visual media does not include any other text, the disclosure must appear in a size that is easily readable by the average viewer. For visual media that is a video, the disclosure must appear for the duration of the video; or
(b) If the media consists of audio only, the disclosure must be read in a clearly spoken manner and in a pitch that can be easily heard by the average listener, at the beginning of the audio, at the end of the audio, and, if the audio is greater than two minutes in length, interspersed within the audio at intervals of not more than two minutes each.
(5) In any action commenced under this section, the plaintiff bears the burden of establishing the use of synthetic media by clear and convincing evidence.
(6) Courts are encouraged to determine matters under this section expediently.
[ 2023 c 360 s 2. Formerly RCW 42.62.020.]

catchline: Action by candidate for relief and damages—Defenses.


title: RCW 29B.35.020

text:
(1) For an action brought under *RCW 42.62.020, the sponsor of the electioneering communication may be held liable, and not the medium disseminating the electioneering communication except as provided in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Except when a licensee, programmer, or operator of a federally licensed broadcasting station transmits an electioneering communication that is subject to 47 U.S.C. Sec. 315, a medium may be held liable in a cause of action brought under *RCW 42.62.020 if:
(a) The medium removes any disclosure described in *RCW 42.62.020(4) from the electioneering communication it disseminates; or
(b) Subject to affirmative defenses described in *RCW 42.62.020, the medium changes the content of an electioneering communication such that it qualifies as synthetic media, as defined in *RCW 42.62.020.
(3)(a) No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider. However, an interactive computer service may be held liable in accordance with subsection (2) of this section.
(b) "Interactive computer service" means any information service, system, or access software provider that provides or enables computer access by multiple users to a computer server, including specifically a service or system that provides access to the internet and such systems operated or services offered by libraries or educational institutions.
(c) "Information content provider" means any person or entity that is responsible, in whole or in part, for the creation or development of information provided through the internet or any other interactive computer service.
[ 2023 c 360 s 3. Formerly RCW 42.62.030.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 42.62.020 was recodified as RCW 29B.35.010 pursuant to 2024 c 164 s 311, effective January 1, 2026.

catchline: Liability of medium disseminating communication.


title: RCW 29B.35.030

text:
The public disclosure commission must adopt rules in furtherance of the purpose of this chapter. Nothing in this chapter constitutes a violation under other chapters of this title, or otherwise authorizes the public disclosure commission to take action under RCW 29B.60.020.
[ 2024 c 164 s 498; 2023 c 360 s 4. Formerly RCW 42.62.040.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.

catchline: Rule-making authority.


title: RCW 29B.40.010

text:
(1) The people of the state of Washington find and declare that:
(a) The financial strength of certain individuals or organizations should not permit them to exercise a disproportionate or controlling influence on the election of candidates.
(b) Rapidly increasing political campaign costs have led many candidates to raise larger percentages of money from special interests with a specific financial stake in matters before state government. This has caused the public perception that decisions of elected officials are being improperly influenced by monetary contributions.
(c) Candidates are raising less money in small contributions from individuals and more money from special interests. This has created the public perception that individuals have an insignificant role to play in the political process.
(2) By limiting campaign contributions, the people intend to:
(a) Ensure that individuals and interest groups have fair and equal opportunity to influence elective and governmental processes;
(b) Reduce the influence of large organizational contributors; and
(c) Restore public trust in governmental institutions and the electoral process.
[ 2024 c 164 s 443; 2010 c 204 s 601; 1993 c 2 s 1 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.400, 42.17.610.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: "This act may be known and cited as the Fair Campaign Practices Act." [ 1993 c 2 s 36 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.909, 42.17.955.]

catchline: Findings—Intent.


title: RCW 29B.40.020

text:
(1) The contribution limits in this section apply to:
(a) Candidates for legislative office;
(b) Candidates for state office other than legislative office;
(c) Candidates for county office;
(d) Candidates for port district office;
(e) Candidates for city council office;
(f) Candidates for mayoral office;
(g) Candidates for school board office;
(h) Candidates for public hospital district board of commissioners in districts with a population over 150,000;
(i) Persons holding an office in (a) through (h) of this subsection against whom recall charges have been filed or to a political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the recall of a person holding the office;
(j) Caucus political committees;
(k) Bona fide political parties.
(2) No person, other than a bona fide political party or a caucus political committee, may make contributions to a candidate for a legislative office, county office, city council office, mayoral office, school board office, or public hospital district board of commissioners that in the aggregate exceed *eight hundred dollars or to a candidate for a public office in a port district or a state office other than a legislative office that in the aggregate exceed *one thousand six hundred dollars for each election in which the candidate is on the ballot or appears as a write-in candidate. Contributions to candidates subject to the limits in this section made with respect to a primary may not be made after the date of the primary. However, contributions to a candidate or a candidate's authorized committee may be made with respect to a primary until 30 days after the primary, subject to the following limitations: (a) The candidate lost the primary; (b) the candidate's authorized committee has insufficient funds to pay debts outstanding as of the date of the primary; and (c) the contributions may only be raised and spent to satisfy the outstanding debt. Contributions to candidates subject to the limits in this section made with respect to a general election may not be made after the final day of the applicable election cycle.
(3) No person, other than a bona fide political party or a caucus political committee, may make contributions to a state official, a county official, a city official, a school board member, a public hospital district commissioner, or a public official in a port district against whom recall charges have been filed, or to a political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the recall of the state official, county official, city official, school board member, public hospital district commissioner, or public official in a port district during a recall campaign that in the aggregate exceed *eight hundred dollars if for a legislative office, county office, school board office, public hospital district office, or city office, or *one thousand six hundred dollars if for a port district office or a state office other than a legislative office.
(4)(a) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, no bona fide political party or caucus political committee may make contributions to a candidate during an election cycle that in the aggregate exceed (i) eighty cents multiplied by the number of eligible registered voters in the jurisdiction from which the candidate is elected if the contributor is a caucus political committee or the governing body of a state organization, or (ii) forty cents multiplied by the number of registered voters in the jurisdiction from which the candidate is elected if the contributor is a county central committee or a legislative district committee.
(b) No candidate may accept contributions from a county central committee or a legislative district committee during an election cycle that when combined with contributions from other county central committees or legislative district committees would in the aggregate exceed forty cents times the number of registered voters in the jurisdiction from which the candidate is elected.
(5)(a) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, no bona fide political party or caucus political committee may make contributions to a state official, county official, city official, school board member, public hospital district commissioner, or a public official in a port district against whom recall charges have been filed, or to a political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the state official, county official, city official, school board member, public hospital district commissioner, or a public official in a port district during a recall campaign that in the aggregate exceed (i) eighty cents multiplied by the number of eligible registered voters in the jurisdiction entitled to recall the state official if the contributor is a caucus political committee or the governing body of a state organization, or (ii) forty cents multiplied by the number of registered voters in the jurisdiction from which the candidate is elected if the contributor is a county central committee or a legislative district committee.
(b) No official holding an office specified in subsection (1) of this section against whom recall charges have been filed, no authorized committee of the official, and no political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the recall of the official may accept contributions from a county central committee or a legislative district committee during an election cycle that when combined with contributions from other county central committees or legislative district committees would in the aggregate exceed forty cents multiplied by the number of registered voters in the jurisdiction from which the candidate is elected.
(6) For purposes of determining contribution limits under subsections (4) and (5) of this section, the number of eligible registered voters in a jurisdiction is the number at the time of the most recent general election in the jurisdiction.
(7) Notwithstanding subsections (2) through (5) of this section, no person other than an individual, bona fide political party, or caucus political committee may make contributions reportable under this title to a caucus political committee that in the aggregate exceed *eight hundred dollars in a calendar year or to a bona fide political party that in the aggregate exceed *four thousand dollars in a calendar year. This subsection does not apply to loans made in the ordinary course of business.
(8) For the purposes of RCW 29B.20.050, 29B.40.020 through 29B.40.040, 29B.40.140 through 29B.40.230, 29B.40.240, 29B.45.020, and 29B.45.030, a contribution to the authorized political committee of a candidate or of an official specified in subsection (1) of this section against whom recall charges have been filed is considered to be a contribution to the candidate or official.
(9) A contribution received within the 12-month period after a recall election concerning an office specified in subsection (1) of this section is considered to be a contribution during that recall campaign if the contribution is used to pay a debt or obligation incurred to influence the outcome of that recall campaign.
(10) The contributions allowed by subsection (3) of this section are in addition to those allowed by subsection (2) of this section, and the contributions allowed by subsection (5) of this section are in addition to those allowed by subsection (4) of this section.
(11) RCW 29B.20.050, 29B.40.020 through 29B.40.040, 29B.40.140 through 29B.40.230, 29B.40.240, 29B.45.020, and 29B.45.030 apply to a special election conducted to fill a vacancy in an office specified in subsection (1) of this section. However, the contributions made to a candidate or received by a candidate for a primary or special election conducted to fill such a vacancy shall not be counted toward any of the limitations that apply to the candidate or to contributions made to the candidate for any other primary or election.
(12) Notwithstanding the other subsections of this section, no corporation or business entity not doing business in Washington state, no labor union with fewer than 10 members who reside in Washington state, and no political committee that has not received contributions of *ten dollars or more from at least 10 persons registered to vote in Washington state during the preceding 180 days may make contributions reportable under this title to a state office candidate, to a state official against whom recall charges have been filed, or to a political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the recall of the official. This subsection does not apply to loans made in the ordinary course of business.
(13) Notwithstanding the other subsections of this section, no county central committee or legislative district committee may make contributions reportable under this title to a candidate specified in subsection (1) of this section, or an official specified in subsection (1) of this section against whom recall charges have been filed, or political committee having the expectation of making expenditures in support of the recall of an official specified in subsection (1) of this section if the county central committee or legislative district committee is outside of the jurisdiction entitled to elect the candidate or recall the official.
(14) No person may accept contributions that exceed the contribution limitations provided in this section.
(15) The following contributions are exempt from the contribution limits of this section:
(a) An expenditure or contribution earmarked for voter registration, for absentee ballot information, for precinct caucuses, for get-out-the-vote campaigns, for precinct judges or inspectors, for sample ballots, or for ballot counting, all without promotion of or political advertising for individual candidates;
(b) An expenditure by a political committee for its own internal organization or fund-raising without direct association with individual candidates; or
(c) An expenditure or contribution for independent expenditures as defined in RCW 29B.10.310 or electioneering communications as defined in RCW 29B.10.220.
[ 2024 c 164 s 444; 2019 c 100 s 1; 2013 c 311 s 1; 2012 c 202 s 1. Prior: 2010 c 206 s 1; 2010 c 204 s 602; 2006 c 348 s 1; 2005 c 445 s 11; prior: 2001 c 208 s 1; 1995 c 397 s 20; 1993 c 2 s 4 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.405, 42.17.640.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 505, 602, and 703: See note following RCW 29B.30.050.
Effective dates—2005 c 445: See note following RCW 29B.30.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: "Sections 1 through 32, 34, and 37 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1995." [ 1995 c 397 s 35. Formerly RCW 42.17A.910, 42.17.960.]
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Limits specified—Exemptions.


title: RCW 29B.40.030

text:
(1) No person may make contributions to a candidate for judicial office that in the aggregate exceed *one thousand six hundred dollars for each election in which the candidate is on the ballot or appears as a write-in candidate. Contributions made with respect to a primary may not be made after the date of the primary. However, contributions to a candidate or a candidate's authorized committee may be made with respect to a primary until 30 days after the primary, subject to the following limitations: (a) The candidate lost the primary; (b) the candidate's authorized committee has insufficient funds to pay debts outstanding as of the date of the primary; and (c) the contributions may only be raised and spent to satisfy the outstanding debt. Contributions made with respect to a general election may not be made after the final day of the applicable election cycle.
(2) This section through RCW 29B.40.220 apply to a special election conducted to fill a vacancy in an office. However, the contributions made to a candidate or received by a candidate for a primary or special election conducted to fill such a vacancy will not be counted toward any of the limitations that apply to the candidate or to contributions made to the candidate for any other primary or election.
(3) No person may accept contributions that exceed the contribution limitations provided in this section.
(4) The dollar limits in this section must be adjusted according to RCW 29B.20.050.
[ 2024 c 164 s 445; 2010 c 204 s 603; 2006 c 348 s 2. Formerly RCW 42.17A.410, 42.17.645.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.

catchline: Candidates for judicial office—Special elections to fill vacancies—Contribution limits—Adjustments.


title: RCW 29B.40.040

text:
(1) Contributions to candidates for state office made and received before December 3, 1992, are considered to be contributions under RCW 29B.20.050, 29B.40.020 through 29B.40.040, 29B.40.140 through 29B.40.230, 29B.40.240, 29B.45.020, and 29B.45.030. Monetary contributions that exceed the contribution limitations and that have not been spent by the recipient of the contribution by December 3, 1992, must be disposed of in accordance with RCW 29B.40.090.
(2) Contributions to other candidates subject to the contribution limits of this title made and received before June 7, 2006, are considered to be contributions under RCW 29B.20.050, 29B.40.020 through 29B.40.040, 29B.40.140 through 29B.40.230, 29B.40.240, 29B.45.020, and 29B.45.030. Contributions that exceed the contribution limitations and that have not been spent by the recipient of the contribution by June 7, 2006, must be disposed of in accordance with RCW 29B.40.090 except for subsections (6) and (7) of that section.
[ 2024 c 164 s 446; 2011 c 60 s 25; 2006 c 348 s 4; 1993 c 2 s 10 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.415, 42.17.700.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2011 c 60: See note following RCW 29B.20.030.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Contributions.


title: RCW 29B.40.050

text:
(1) A foreign national may not make a contribution to any candidate or political committee, make an expenditure in support of or in opposition to any candidate or ballot measure, or sponsor political advertising or an electioneering communication.
(2) A person may not make a contribution to any candidate or political committee, make an expenditure in support of or in opposition to any candidate or ballot measure, or sponsor political advertising or an electioneering communication, if:
(a) The contribution, expenditure, political advertising, or electioneering communication is financed in any part by a foreign national; or
(b) Foreign nationals are involved in making decisions regarding the contribution, expenditure, political advertising, or electioneering communication in any way.
[ 2024 c 164 s 447; 2020 c 152 s 9. Formerly RCW 42.17A.417.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Findings—2020 c 152: "The legislature finds that the First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and free association, as they relate to participating in elections, are core values in the United States. The United States supreme court has repeatedly held that these rights include the right to make campaign contributions in support of candidates and ballot measures at the federal, state, and local levels.
The legislature also finds, in accordance with federal law, that these rights are reserved solely for citizens of the United States and permanent legal residents, whether they act as individuals or in association. The First Amendment protection for political speech does not apply to foreign nationals, who are forbidden under 52 U.S.C. Sec. 30121 from directly or indirectly making political contributions or financing independent expenditures and electioneering communications, either individually or collectively through a corporation or other association. Furthermore, federal law prohibits any person from knowingly soliciting or receiving contributions from a foreign national. Therefore, it falls to individual states to help protect the prohibition on foreign influence in our state and local elections by requiring certification that contributions, expenditures, political advertising, and electioneering communications are not financed in any part by foreign nationals and that foreign nationals are not involved in making decisions regarding such election activity in any way." [ 2020 c 152 s 1.]
Local regulations not preempted—2020 c 152: "Chapter 152, Laws of 2020 does not affect or modify the power of a local government to adopt an ordinance or regulation on matters governed by chapter 152, Laws of 2020." [ 2020 c 152 s 11. Formerly RCW 42.17A.920.]

catchline: Foreign nationals—Contributions, expenditures, and electioneering prohibited.


title: RCW 29B.40.060

text:
(1) Each candidate or political committee that has accepted a contribution, and each out-of-state committee that has accepted a contribution reportable under RCW 29B.25.110, from a partnership, association, corporation, organization, or other combination of persons must receive a certification from each contributor that:
(a) The contribution is not financed in any part by a foreign national; and
(b) Foreign nationals are not involved in making decisions regarding the contribution in any way.
(2) The certifications must be maintained for a period of no less than three years after the date of the applicable election.
(3) At the request of the commission, each candidate or committee required to comply with subsection (1) of this section must provide to the commission copies of the certifications maintained under this section.
[ 2024 c 164 s 448; 2020 c 152 s 10. Formerly RCW 42.17A.418.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Findings—Local regulations not preempted—2020 c 152: See notes following RCW 29B.40.050.


title: RCW 29B.40.070

text:
(1) It is a violation of this title for any person to make, or for any candidate or political committee to accept from any one person, contributions reportable under RCW 29B.25.100 in the aggregate exceeding fifty thousand dollars for any campaign for statewide office or exceeding five thousand dollars for any other campaign subject to the provisions of this title within 21 days of a general election. This subsection does not apply to:
(a) Contributions made by, or accepted from, a bona fide political party as defined in this title, excluding the county central committee or legislative district committee;
(b) Contributions made to, or received by, a ballot proposition committee; or
(c) Payments received by an incidental committee.
(2) Contributions governed by this section include, but are not limited to, contributions made or received indirectly through a third party or entity whether the contributions are or are not reported to the commission as earmarked contributions under RCW 29B.25.150.
[ 2024 c 164 s 449; 2019 c 428 s 27; 2018 c 111 s 7; 2010 c 204 s 604. Formerly RCW 42.17A.420.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—Short title—Findings—Intent—Implementation with existing funds—2018 c 111: See notes following RCW 29B.25.030.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.


title: RCW 29B.40.080

text:
No expenditures may be made or incurred by any candidate or political committee unless authorized by the candidate or the person or persons named on the candidate's or committee's registration form. A record of all such expenditures shall be maintained by the treasurer.
No expenditure of more than fifty dollars may be made in currency unless a receipt, signed by the recipient and by the candidate or treasurer, is prepared and made a part of the campaign's or political committee's financial records.
[ 2024 c 164 s 450; 2010 c 204 s 605; 2007 c 358 s 3; 1989 c 280 s 7; 1985 c 367 s 5; 1973 c 1 s 7 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.425, 42.17.070.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—2007 c 358: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.
Effective date—1989 c 280: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Expenditures—Authorization of and restrictions on.


title: RCW 29B.40.090

text:
The surplus funds of a candidate or a candidate's authorized committee may only be disposed of in any one or more of the following ways:
(1) Return the surplus to a contributor in an amount not to exceed that contributor's original contribution;
(2) Using surplus, reimburse the candidate for lost earnings incurred as a result of that candidate's election campaign. Lost earnings shall be verifiable as unpaid salary or, when the candidate is not salaried, as an amount not to exceed income received by the candidate for services rendered during an appropriate, corresponding time period. All lost earnings incurred shall be documented and a record thereof shall be maintained by the candidate or the candidate's authorized committee. The committee shall maintain a copy of this record in accordance with RCW 29B.25.090(6);
(3) Transfer the surplus without limit to a political party or to a caucus political committee;
(4) Donate the surplus to a charitable organization registered in accordance with chapter 19.09 RCW;
(5) Transmit the surplus to the state treasurer for deposit in the general fund, the Washington state legacy project, state library, and archives account under RCW 43.07.380, or the legislative international trade account under RCW 43.15.050, as specified by the candidate or political committee; or
(6) Hold the surplus in the depository or depositories designated in accordance with RCW 29B.25.050 for possible use in a future election campaign for the same office last sought by the candidate and report any such disposition in accordance with RCW 29B.25.100. If the candidate subsequently announces or publicly files for office, the appropriate information must be reported to the commission in accordance with RCW 29B.25.020 through 29B.25.100. If a subsequent office is not sought the surplus held shall be disposed of in accordance with the requirements of this section.
(7) Hold the surplus campaign funds in a separate account for nonreimbursed public office-related expenses or as provided in this section, and report any such disposition in accordance with RCW 29B.25.100. The separate account required under this subsection shall not be used for deposits of campaign funds that are not surplus.
(8) No candidate or authorized committee may transfer funds to any other candidate or other political committee.
The disposal of surplus funds under this section shall not be considered a contribution for purposes of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 451; 2010 c 204 s 606; 2005 c 467 s 1; 1995 c 397 s 31; 1993 c 2 s 20 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992); 1982 c 147 s 8; 1977 ex.s. c 336 s 3. Formerly RCW 42.17A.430, 42.17.095.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—2005 c 467: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 13, 2005]." [ 2005 c 467 s 2.]
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 336: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.

catchline: Disposal of surplus funds.


title: RCW 29B.40.100

text:
No contribution shall be made and no expenditure shall be incurred, directly or indirectly, in a fictitious name, anonymously, or by one person through an agent, relative, or other person in such a manner as to conceal the identity of the source of the contribution or in any other manner so as to effect concealment.
[ 2024 c 164 s 452; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 8; 1973 c 1 s 12 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.435, 42.17.120.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Identification of contributions and communications.


title: RCW 29B.40.110

text:
A candidate may not knowingly establish, use, direct, or control more than one political committee for the purpose of supporting that candidate during a particular election campaign. This does not prohibit: (1) In addition to a candidate's having his or her own political committee, the candidate's participation in a political committee established to support a slate of candidates that includes the candidate; or (2) joint fund-raising efforts by candidates when a separate political committee is established for that purpose and all contributions are disbursed to and accounted for on a pro rata basis by the benefiting candidates.
[ 2024 c 164 s 453; 2010 c 204 s 607. Formerly RCW 42.17A.440.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.


title: RCW 29B.40.120

text:
A political committee may make a contribution to another political committee only when the contributing political committee has received contributions of ten dollars or more each from at least 10 persons registered to vote in Washington state.
[ 2024 c 164 s 454; 2011 c 145 s 5. Formerly RCW 42.17A.442.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2011 c 145: See notes following RCW 29B.25.020.

catchline: Contributions by political committees to political committees.


title: RCW 29B.40.130

text:
Contributions received and reported in accordance with RCW 29B.25.060 through 29B.25.100 and 29B.40.080 may only be paid to a candidate, or a treasurer or other individual or expended for such individual's personal use under the following circumstances:
(1) Reimbursement for or payments to cover lost earnings incurred as a result of campaigning or services performed for the political committee. Lost earnings shall be verifiable as unpaid salary, or when the individual is not salaried, as an amount not to exceed income received by the individual for services rendered during an appropriate, corresponding time period. All lost earnings incurred shall be documented and a record shall be maintained by the candidate or the candidate's authorized committee in accordance with RCW 29B.25.090.
(2) Reimbursement for direct out-of-pocket election campaign and postelection campaign related expenses made by the individual. For example, expenses for child care or other direct caregiving responsibilities may be reimbursed if they are incurred directly as a result of the candidate's campaign activities. To receive reimbursement from the political committee, the individual shall provide the political committee with written documentation as to the amount, date, and description of each expense, and the political committee shall include a copy of such information when its expenditure for such reimbursement is reported pursuant to RCW 29B.25.100.
(3) Repayment of loans made by the individual to political committees shall be reported pursuant to RCW 29B.25.100. However, contributions may not be used to reimburse a candidate for loans totaling more than *four thousand seven hundred dollars made by the candidate to the candidate's own authorized committee.
[ 2024 c 164 s 455; 2022 c 174 s 1; 2010 c 204 s 608; 1995 c 397 s 29; 1993 c 2 s 21 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992); 1989 c 280 s 12; 1985 c 367 s 7; 1977 ex.s. c 336 s 6. Formerly RCW 42.17A.445, 42.17.125.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.
Effective date—1989 c 280: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 336: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.

catchline: Personal use of contributions—When permitted.


title: RCW 29B.40.140

text:
(1) Contributions by spouses are considered separate contributions.
(2) Contributions by unemancipated children under 18 years of age are considered contributions by their parents and are attributed proportionately to each parent. Fifty percent of the contributions are attributed to each parent or, in the case of a single custodial parent, the total amount is attributed to the parent.
[ 2024 c 164 s 456; 2018 c 304 s 11; 1993 c 2 s 5 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.450, 42.17.650.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Attribution and aggregation of family contributions.


title: RCW 29B.40.150

text:
For purposes of this title:
(1) A contribution by a political committee with funds that have all been contributed by one person who exercises exclusive control over the distribution of the funds of the political committee is a contribution by the controlling person.
(2) Two or more entities are treated as a single entity if one of the two or more entities is a subsidiary, branch, or department of a corporation that is participating in an election campaign or making contributions, or a local unit or branch of a trade association, labor union, or collective bargaining association that is participating in an election campaign or making contributions. All contributions made by a person or political committee whose contribution or expenditure activity is financed, maintained, or controlled by a trade association, labor union, collective bargaining organization, or the local unit of a trade association, labor union, or collective bargaining organization are considered made by the trade association, labor union, collective bargaining organization, or local unit of a trade association, labor union, or collective bargaining organization.
(3) The commission shall adopt rules to carry out this section and is not subject to the time restrictions of RCW 29B.20.030(1).
[ 2024 c 164 s 457; 2010 c 204 s 609; 2005 c 445 s 12; 1993 c 2 s 6 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.455, 42.17.660.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective dates—2005 c 445: See note following RCW 29B.30.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Attribution of contributions by controlled entities.


title: RCW 29B.40.160

text:
All contributions made by a person or entity, either directly or indirectly, to a candidate, to a state official against whom recall charges have been filed, or to a political committee, are considered to be contributions from that person or entity to the candidate, state official, or political committee, as are contributions that are in any way earmarked or otherwise directed through an intermediary or conduit to the candidate, state official, or political committee. For the purposes of this section, "earmarked" means a designation, instruction, or encumbrance, whether direct or indirect, expressed or implied, or oral or written, that is intended to result in or does result in all or any part of a contribution being made to a certain candidate or state official. If a conduit or intermediary exercises any direction or control over the choice of the recipient candidate or state official, the contribution is considered to be by both the original contributor and the conduit or intermediary.
[ 2024 c 164 s 458; 1993 c 2 s 7 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.460, 42.17.670.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Attribution of contributions generally—"Earmarking."


title: RCW 29B.40.170

text:
(1) A loan is considered to be a contribution from the lender and any guarantor of the loan and is subject to the contribution limitations of this title. The full amount of the loan shall be attributed to the lender and to each guarantor.
(2) A loan to a candidate for public office or the candidate's authorized committee must be by written agreement.
(3) The proceeds of a loan made to a candidate for public office:
(a) By a commercial lending institution;
(b) Made in the regular course of business; and
(c) On the same terms ordinarily available to members of the public, are not subject to the contribution limits of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 459; 2010 c 204 s 610; 1995 c 397 s 22; 1993 c 2 s 12 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.465, 42.17.720.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Restriction on loans.


title: RCW 29B.40.180

text:
(1) A person, other than an individual, may not be an intermediary or an agent for a contribution.
(2) An individual may not make a contribution on behalf of another person or entity, or while acting as the intermediary or agent of another person or entity, without disclosing to the recipient of the contribution both his or her full name, street address, occupation, name of employer, if any, or place of business if self-employed, and the same information for each contributor for whom the individual serves as intermediary or agent.
[ 2024 c 164 s 460; 1993 c 2 s 13 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.470, 42.17.730.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Contributions on behalf of another.


title: RCW 29B.40.190

text:
(1) A person may not make a contribution of more than *one hundred dollars, other than an in-kind contribution, except by a written instrument containing the name of the donor and the name of the payee.
(2) A political committee may not make a contribution, other than in-kind, except by a written instrument containing the name of the donor and the name of the payee.
[ 2024 c 164 s 461; 2019 c 428 s 28; 2010 c 204 s 611; 1995 c 397 s 23; 1993 c 2 s 14 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.475, 42.17.740.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Certain contributions required to be by written instrument.


title: RCW 29B.40.200

text:
A person may not solicit from a candidate for public office, political committee, political party, or other person money or other property as a condition or consideration for an endorsement, article, or other communication in the news media promoting or opposing a candidate for public office, political committee, or political party.
[ 2024 c 164 s 462; 1995 c 397 s 25; 1993 c 2 s 17 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.480, 42.17.770.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Solicitation of endorsement fees.


title: RCW 29B.40.210

text:
A person may not, directly or indirectly, reimburse another person for a contribution to a candidate for public office, political committee, or political party.
[ 2024 c 164 s 463; 1995 c 397 s 26; 1993 c 2 s 18 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.485, 42.17.780.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Reimbursement for contributions.


title: RCW 29B.40.220

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, a candidate for public office or the candidate's authorized committee may not use or permit the use of contributions, whether or not surplus, solicited for or received by the candidate or the candidate's authorized committee to further the candidacy of the individual for an office other than the office designated on the statement of organization. A contribution solicited for or received on behalf of the candidate is considered solicited or received for the candidacy for which the individual is then a candidate if the contribution is solicited or received before the general election for which the candidate is a nominee or is unopposed.
(2) With the written approval of the contributor, a candidate or the candidate's authorized committee may use or permit the use of contributions, whether or not surplus, solicited for or received by the candidate or the candidate's authorized committee from that contributor to further the candidacy of the individual for an office other than the office designated on the statement of organization. If the contributor does not approve the use of his or her contribution to further the candidacy of the individual for an office other than the office designated on the statement of organization at the time of the contribution, the contribution must be considered surplus funds and disposed of in accordance with RCW 29B.40.090.
[ 2024 c 164 s 464; 2010 c 204 s 612; 1995 c 397 s 27; 1993 c 2 s 19 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.490, 42.17.790.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Prohibition on use of contributions for a different office.


title: RCW 29B.40.230

text:
(1) No employer or labor organization may increase the salary of an officer or employee, or compensate an officer, employee, or other person or entity, with the intention that the increase in salary, or the compensation, or a part of it, be contributed or spent to support or oppose a candidate, state official against whom recall charges have been filed, political party, or political committee.
(2) No employer or labor organization may discriminate against an officer or employee in the terms or conditions of employment for (a) the failure to contribute to, (b) the failure in any way to support or oppose, or (c) in any way supporting or opposing a candidate, ballot proposition, political party, or political committee. At least annually, an employee from whom wages or salary are withheld under subsection (3) of this section shall be notified of the provisions of this subsection.
(3) No employer or other person or entity responsible for the disbursement of funds in payment of wages or salaries may withhold or divert a portion of an employee's wages or salaries for contributions to political committees or for use as political contributions except upon the written request of the employee. The request must be made on a form prescribed by the commission informing the employee of the prohibition against employer and labor organization discrimination described in subsection (2) of this section. The employee may revoke the request at any time. At least annually, the employee shall be notified about the right to revoke the request.
(4) Each person or entity who withholds contributions under subsection (3) of this section shall maintain open for public inspection for a period of no less than three years, during normal business hours, documents and books of accounts that shall include a copy of each employee's request, the amounts and dates funds were actually withheld, and the amounts and dates funds were transferred to a political committee. Copies of such information shall be delivered to the commission upon request.
[ 2024 c 164 s 465; 2010 c 204 s 613; 2002 c 156 s 1; 1993 c 2 s 8 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.495, 42.17.680.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—2002 c 156: "This act takes effect July 1, 2002." [ 2002 c 156 s 2.]
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Limitations on employers or labor organizations.


title: RCW 29B.40.240

text:
(1) A labor organization may not use agency shop fees paid by an individual who is not a member of the organization to make contributions or expenditures to influence an election or to operate a political committee, unless affirmatively authorized by the individual.
(2) A labor organization does not use agency shop fees when it uses its general treasury funds to make such contributions or expenditures if it has sufficient revenues from sources other than agency shop fees in its general treasury to fund such contributions or expenditures.
[ 2024 c 164 s 466; 2007 c 438 s 1; 1993 c 2 s 16 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.500, 42.17.760.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2007 c 438: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 11, 2007]." [ 2007 c 438 s 2.]
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Agency shop fees as contributions.


title: RCW 29B.40.250

text:
Public funds, whether derived through taxes, fees, penalties, or any other sources, shall not be used to finance political campaigns for state or school district office. A county, city, town, or district that establishes a program to publicly finance local political campaigns may only use funds derived from local sources to fund the program. A local government must submit any proposal for public financing of local political campaigns to voters for their adoption and approval or rejection.
[ 2024 c 164 s 467; 2008 c 29 s 1; 1993 c 2 s 24 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.550, 42.17.128.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Use of public funds for political purposes.


title: RCW 29B.45.010

text:
No elective official nor any employee of his or her office nor any person appointed to or employed by any public office or agency may use or authorize the use of any of the facilities of a public office or agency, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of assisting a campaign for election of any person to any office or for the promotion of or opposition to any ballot proposition. Facilities of a public office or agency include, but are not limited to, use of stationery, postage, machines, and equipment, use of employees of the office or agency during working hours, vehicles, office space, publications of the office or agency, and clientele lists of persons served by the office or agency. However, this does not apply to the following activities:
(1) Action taken at an open public meeting by members of an elected legislative body or by an elected board, council, or commission of a special purpose district including, but not limited to, fire districts, public hospital districts, library districts, park districts, port districts, public utility districts, school districts, sewer districts, and water districts, to express a collective decision, or to actually vote upon a motion, proposal, resolution, order, or ordinance, or to support or oppose a ballot proposition so long as (a) any required notice of the meeting includes the title and number of the ballot proposition, and (b) members of the legislative body, members of the board, council, or commission of the special purpose district, or members of the public are afforded an approximately equal opportunity for the expression of an opposing view;
(2) A statement by an elected official in support of or in opposition to any ballot proposition at an open press conference or in response to a specific inquiry;
(3) Activities which are part of the normal and regular conduct of the office or agency;
(4) This section does not apply to any person who is a state officer or state employee as defined in RCW 42.52.010.
[ 2024 c 164 s 468; 2010 c 204 s 701; 2006 c 215 s 2; 1979 ex.s. c 265 s 2; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 6; 1973 c 1 s 13 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.555, 42.17.130.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Finding—Intent—2006 c 215: "(1) The legislature finds that the public benefits from an open and inclusive discussion of proposed ballot measures by local elected leaders, and that for twenty-five years these discussions have included the opportunity for elected boards, councils, and commissions of special purpose districts to vote in open public meetings in order to express their support of, or opposition to, ballot propositions affecting their jurisdictions.
(2) The legislature intends to affirm and clarify the state's long-standing policy of promoting informed public discussion and understanding of ballot propositions by allowing elected boards, councils, and commissions of special purpose districts to adopt resolutions supporting or opposing ballot propositions." [ 2006 c 215 s 1.]
Disposition of violations before January 1, 1995: "Any violations occurring prior to January 1, 1995, of any of the following laws shall be disposed of as if chapter 154, Laws of 1994 were not enacted and such laws continued in full force and effect: RCW 42.17.130, chapter 42.18 RCW, chapter 42.21 RCW, and chapter 42.22 RCW." [ 1994 c 154 s 226.]
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: See note following RCW 29B.60.020.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Use of public office or agency facilities in campaigns—Prohibition—Exceptions.


title: RCW 29B.45.020

text:
(1) During the period beginning on the thirtieth day before the date a regular legislative session convenes and continuing through the date of final adjournment, and during the period beginning on the date a special legislative session convenes and continuing through the date that session adjourns, no state official or a person employed by or acting on behalf of a state official or state legislator may solicit or accept contributions to a public office fund, to a candidate or authorized committee, or to retire a campaign debt. Contributions received through the mail after the thirtieth day before a regular legislative session may be accepted if the contribution is postmarked prior to the thirtieth day before the session.
(2) This section does not apply to activities authorized in RCW 43.07.370.
[ 2024 c 164 s 469. Prior: 2006 c 348 s 5; 2006 c 344 s 31; 2003 c 164 s 3; 1993 c 2 s 11 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.560, 42.17.710.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2006 c 344 ss 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Time limit for state official to solicit or accept contributions.


title: RCW 29B.45.030

text:
(1) No state or local official or state or local official's agent may knowingly solicit, directly or indirectly, a contribution to a candidate for public office, political party, or political committee from an employee in the state or local official's agency.
(2) No state or local official or public employee may provide an advantage or disadvantage to an employee or applicant for employment in the classified civil service concerning the applicant's or employee's:
(a) Employment;
(b) Conditions of employment; or
(c) Application for employment,
based on the employee's or applicant's contribution or promise to contribute or failure to make a contribution or contribute to a political party or political committee.
[ 2024 c 164 s 470; 1995 c 397 s 24; 1993 c 2 s 15 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.565, 42.17.750.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Solicitation of contributions by public officials or employees.


title: RCW 29B.45.040

text:
After January 1st and before April 15th of each calendar year, the state treasurer, each county, public utility district, and port district treasurer, and each treasurer of an incorporated city or town whose population exceeds 1,000 shall file with the commission:
(1) A statement under oath that no public funds under that treasurer's control were invested in any institution where the treasurer or, in the case of a county, a member of the county finance committee, held during the reporting period an office, directorship, partnership interest, or ownership interest; or
(2) A report disclosing for the previous calendar year: (a) The name and address of each financial institution in which the treasurer or, in the case of a county, a member of the county finance committee, held during the reporting period an office, directorship, partnership interest, or ownership interest which holds or has held during the reporting period public accounts of the governmental entity for which the treasurer is responsible; (b) the aggregate sum of time and demand deposits held in each such financial institution on December 31; and (c) the highest balance held at any time during such reporting period. The state treasurer shall disclose the highest balance information only upon a public records request under chapter 42.56 RCW. The statement or report required by this section shall be filed either with the statement required under RCW 29B.55.010 or separately.
[ 2024 c 164 s 471; 2010 c 204 s 702; 2005 c 274 s 282; 1983 c 213 s 1; 1981 c 102 s 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 10. Formerly RCW 42.17A.570, 42.17.245.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: See note following RCW 29B.60.020.

catchline: Public accounts of governmental entities held by financial institutions—Statements and reports—Contents—Filing.


title: RCW 29B.45.050

text:
No state elected official or municipal officer may speak or appear in a public service announcement that is broadcast, shown, or distributed in any form whatsoever during the period beginning January 1st and continuing through the general election if that official or officer is a candidate. If the official or officer does not control the broadcast, showing, or distribution of a public service announcement in which he or she speaks or appears, then the official or officer shall contractually limit the use of the public service announcement to be consistent with this section prior to participating in the public service announcement. This section does not apply to public service announcements that are part of the regular duties of the office that only mention or visually display the office or office seal or logo and do not mention or visually display the name of the official or officer in the announcement.
[ 2024 c 164 s 472; 2010 c 204 s 703. Formerly RCW 42.17A.575.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 505, 602, and 703: See note following RCW 29B.30.050.

catchline: Public service announcements.


title: RCW 29B.50.010

text:
(1) Before lobbying, or within 30 days after being employed as a lobbyist, whichever occurs first, unless exempt under RCW 29B.50.040, a lobbyist shall register by filing with the commission a lobbyist registration statement, in such detail as the commission shall prescribe, that includes the following information:
(a) The lobbyist's name, permanent business address, electronic contact information, and any temporary residential and business addresses in Thurston county during the legislative session;
(b) The name, address and occupation or business of the lobbyist's employer;
(c) The duration of the lobbyist's employment;
(d) The compensation to be received for lobbying, the amount to be paid for expenses, and what expenses are to be reimbursed;
(e) Whether the lobbyist is employed solely as a lobbyist or whether the lobbyist is a regular employee performing services for the lobbyist's employer which include but are not limited to the influencing of legislation;
(f) The general subject or subjects to be lobbied;
(g) A written authorization from each of the lobbyist's employers confirming such employment;
(h) The name, address, and electronic contact information of the person who will have custody of the accounts, bills, receipts, books, papers, and documents required to be kept under this title;
(i) If the lobbyist's employer is an entity (including, but not limited to, business and trade associations) whose members include, or which as a representative entity undertakes lobbying activities for, businesses, groups, associations, or organizations, the name and address of each member of such entity or person represented by such entity whose fees, dues, payments, or other consideration paid to such entity during either of the prior two years have exceeded *five hundred dollars or who is obligated to or has agreed to pay fees, dues, payments, or other consideration exceeding *five hundred dollars to such entity during the current year;
(j) An attestation that the lobbyist has read and completed a training course provided under RCW 44.04.390 regarding the legislative code of conduct and any policies related to appropriate conduct adopted by the senate or the house of representatives.
(2) Any lobbyist who receives or is to receive compensation from more than one person for lobbying shall file a separate notice of representation for each person. However, if two or more persons are jointly paying or contributing to the payment of the lobbyist, the lobbyist may file a single statement detailing the name, business address, and occupation of each person paying or contributing and the respective amounts to be paid or contributed.
(3) Whenever a change, modification, or termination of the lobbyist's employment occurs, the lobbyist shall file with the commission an amended registration statement within one week of the change, modification, or termination.
(4) Each registered lobbyist shall file a new registration statement, revised as appropriate, on the second Monday in January of each odd-numbered year. Failure to do so terminates the lobbyist's registration.
[ 2024 c 164 s 473. Prior: 2019 c 469 s 2; 2019 c 428 s 29; 2010 c 204 s 801; 1987 c 201 s 1; 1982 c 147 s 10; 1973 c 1 s 15 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.600, 42.17.150.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-20-150.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2019 c 469 ss 2 and 3: "Sections 2 and 3 of this act take effect December 31, 2019." [ 2019 c 469 s 5.]
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Registration of lobbyists.


title: RCW 29B.50.020

text:
(1) A lobbyist who is registered under RCW 29B.50.010 before December 31, 2019, is required to update the lobbyist's registration materials to include the attestation required by RCW 29B.50.010(1)(j) by December 31, 2019.
(2) The commission shall revoke the registration of any lobbyist registered under RCW 29B.50.010 who does not comply with subsection (1) of this section.
(3) The commission may not impose any other penalty on a lobbyist registered under RCW 29B.50.010 for failure to comply with subsection (1) of this section.
(4) The commission shall collaborate with the chief clerk of the house of representatives and the secretary of the senate to develop a process to verify that lobbyists who submit an attestation under RCW 29B.50.010(1)(j) have completed the training course provided under RCW 44.04.390.
[ 2024 c 164 s 474; 2019 c 469 s 4. Formerly RCW 42.17A.603.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Code of conduct—Verification—Penalty.


title: RCW 29B.50.030

text:
Each lobbyist shall at the time the lobbyist registers submit electronically to the commission a recent photograph of the lobbyist of a size and format as determined by rule of the commission, together with the name of the lobbyist's employer, the length of the lobbyist's employment as a lobbyist before the legislature, a brief biographical description, and any other information the lobbyist may wish to submit not to exceed 50 words in length. The photograph, information, and attestation submitted under RCW 29B.50.010(1)(j) shall be published by the commission on its website.
[ 2024 c 164 s 475. Prior: 2019 c 469 s 3; 2019 c 428 s 30; 2010 c 204 s 802; 1995 c 397 s 6; 1985 c 367 s 8; 1982 c 147 s 11; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 21. Formerly RCW 42.17A.605, 42.17.155.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2019 c 469 ss 2 and 3: See note following RCW 29B.50.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.

catchline: Photograph and information—Publication.


title: RCW 29B.50.040

text:
The following persons and activities are exempt from registration and reporting under RCW 29B.50.010, 29B.50.050, and 29B.50.100:
(1) Persons who limit their lobbying activities to appearing before public sessions of committees of the legislature, or public hearings of state agencies;
(2) Activities by lobbyists or other persons whose participation has been solicited by an agency under RCW 34.05.310(2);
(3) News or feature reporting activities and editorial comment by working members of the press, radio, digital media, or television and the publication or dissemination thereof by a newspaper, book publisher, regularly published periodical, radio station, digital platform, or television station;
(4) Persons who lobby without compensation or other consideration for acting as a lobbyist, if the person makes no expenditure for or on behalf of any member of the legislature or elected official or public officer or employee of the state of Washington in connection with such lobbying. The exemption contained in this subsection is intended to permit and encourage citizens of this state to lobby any legislator, public official, or state agency without incurring any registration or reporting obligation provided they do not exceed the limits stated above. Any person exempt under this subsection (4) may at the person's option register and report under this title;
(5) Persons who restrict their lobbying activities to no more than four days or parts of four days during any three-month period and whose total expenditures during such three-month period for or on behalf of any one or more members of the legislature or state elected officials or public officers or employees of the state of Washington in connection with such lobbying do not exceed *twenty-five dollars. The commission shall adopt rules to require disclosure by persons exempt under this subsection or their employers or entities which sponsor or coordinate the lobbying activities of such persons if it determines that such regulations are necessary to prevent frustration of the purposes of this title. Any person exempt under this subsection (5) may at the person's option register and report under this title;
(6) The governor;
(7) The lieutenant governor;
(8) Except as provided by RCW 29B.50.090(1), members of the legislature;
(9) Except as provided by RCW 29B.50.090(1), persons employed by the legislature for the purpose of aiding in the preparation or enactment of legislation or the performance of legislative duties;
(10) Elected officials, and officers and employees of any agency reporting under RCW 29B.50.090(5).
[ 2024 c 164 s 476; 2019 c 428 s 31; 2010 c 204 s 803; 1998 c 55 s 3; 1995 c 397 s 32; 1982 c 147 s 12; 1977 ex.s. c 313 s 4; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 9; 1973 c 1 s 16 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.610, 42.17.160.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-20-150.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 313: See note following RCW 29B.25.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Exemption from registration and reporting.


title: RCW 29B.50.050

text:
(1) Any lobbyist registered under RCW 29B.50.010 and any person who lobbies shall file electronically with the commission monthly reports of the lobbyist's or person's lobbying activities. The reports shall be made in the form and manner prescribed by the commission and must be signed by the lobbyist. The monthly report shall be filed within 15 days after the last day of the calendar month covered by the report.
(2) The monthly report shall contain:
(a) The totals of all expenditures for lobbying activities made or incurred by the lobbyist or on behalf of the lobbyist by the lobbyist's employer during the period covered by the report. Expenditure totals for lobbying activities shall be segregated according to financial category, including compensation; food and refreshments; living accommodations; advertising; travel; contributions; and other expenses or services. Each individual expenditure of more than *twenty-five dollars for entertainment shall be identified by date, place, amount, and the names of all persons taking part in the entertainment, along with the dollar amount attributable to each person, including the lobbyist's portion.
(b) In the case of a lobbyist employed by more than one employer, the proportionate amount of expenditures in each category incurred on behalf of each of the lobbyist's employers.
(c) An itemized listing of each contribution of money or of tangible or intangible personal property, whether contributed by the lobbyist personally or delivered or transmitted by the lobbyist, to any candidate, elected official, or officer or employee of any agency, or any political committee supporting or opposing any ballot proposition, or for or on behalf of any candidate, elected official, or officer or employee of any agency, or any political committee supporting or opposing any ballot proposition. All contributions made to, or for the benefit of, any candidate, elected official, or officer or employee of any agency, or any political committee supporting or opposing any ballot proposition shall be identified by date, amount, and the name of the candidate, elected official, or officer or employee of any agency, or any political committee supporting or opposing any ballot proposition receiving, or to be benefited by each such contribution.
(d) The subject matter of proposed legislation or other legislative activity or rule making under chapter 34.05 RCW, the state administrative procedure act, and the state agency considering the same, which the lobbyist has been engaged in supporting or opposing during the reporting period, unless exempt under RCW 29B.50.040(2).
(e) A listing of each payment for an item specified in RCW 42.52.150(7) in excess of $100 and each item specified in RCW 42.52.150(1)(c) (iv) and (vi) made to a state elected official, state officer, or state employee. Each item shall be identified by recipient, date, and approximate value of the item.
(f) The total expenditures paid or incurred during the reporting period by the lobbyist for lobbying purposes, whether through or on behalf of a lobbyist or otherwise, for (i) political advertising as defined in RCW 29B.10.410; and (ii) public relations, telemarketing, polling, or similar activities if the activities, directly or indirectly, are intended, designed, or calculated to influence legislation or the adoption or rejection of a rule, standard, or rate by an agency under the administrative procedure act. The report shall specify the amount, the person to whom the amount was paid, and a brief description of the activity.
(3) Lobbyists are not required to report the following:
(a) Unreimbursed personal living and travel expenses not incurred directly for lobbying;
(b) Any expenses incurred for the lobbyist's own living accommodations;
(c) Any expenses incurred for the lobbyist's own travel to and from hearings of the legislature;
(d) Any expenses incurred for telephone, and any office expenses, including rent and salaries and wages paid for staff and secretarial assistance.
(4) The commission may adopt rules to vary the content of lobbyist reports to address specific circumstances, consistent with this section. Lobbyist reports are subject to audit by the commission.
[ 2025 c 377 s 24; 2024 c 164 s 477; 2019 c 428 s 32; 2010 c 204 s 804; 1995 c 397 s 33; 1991 sp.s. c 18 s 2; 1990 c 139 s 3; 1989 c 175 s 90; 1987 c 423 s 1; 1985 c 367 s 9; 1982 c 147 s 13; 1977 ex.s. c 313 s 5; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 10; 1973 c 1 s 17 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.615, 42.17.170.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amount in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-20-150.
Effective date—2025 c 377 ss 2, 10, 14, 22, 24, 26, and 28: See note following RCW 42.52.010.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—1995 c 397 s 33: "Section 33 of this act takes effect September 1, 1995." [ 1995 c 397 s 36.]
Legislative intent—1990 c 139: See note following RCW 29B.50.100.
Effective date—1989 c 175: See note following RCW 34.05.010.
Effective date—1977 ex.s. c 313: See note following RCW 29B.25.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Reporting by lobbyists—Rules.


title: RCW 29B.50.060

text:
(1) When a listing or a report of contributions is made to the commission under RCW 29B.50.050(2)(c), a copy of the listing or report must be given to the candidate, elected official, professional employee of the legislature, or officer or employee of an agency, or a political committee supporting or opposing a ballot proposition named in the listing or report.
(2) If a state elected official or a member of the official's immediate family is identified by a lobbyist in a lobbyist report as having received from the lobbyist an item specified in RCW 42.52.150(7) or 42.52.150(1)(c) (iv) or (vi) [RCW 42.52.150 (7) or (1)(c) (iv) or (vi)], the lobbyist shall transmit to the official a copy of the completed form used to identify the item in the report at the same time the report is filed with the commission.
[ 2025 c 377 s 26; 2024 c 164 s 478; 2010 c 204 s 805; 1993 c 2 s 32 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.620, 42.17.172.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 377 ss 2, 10, 14, 22, 24, 26, and 28: See note following RCW 42.52.010.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Notification to person named in report.


title: RCW 29B.50.070

text:
Any lobbyist registered under RCW 29B.50.010, any person who lobbies, and any lobbyist's employer making a contribution or an aggregate of contributions to a single entity that is one thousand dollars or more during a special reporting period, as specified in RCW 29B.25.140, before a primary or general election shall file one or more special reports in the same manner and to the same extent that a contributing political committee must file under RCW 29B.25.140.
[ 2024 c 164 s 479; 2010 c 204 s 806; 2001 c 54 s 3; 1991 c 157 s 2; 1985 c 359 s 2. Formerly RCW 42.17A.625, 42.17.175.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Effective date—2001 c 54: See note following RCW 29B.25.130.

catchline: Special reports—Lobbyists—Late contributions or large totals.


title: RCW 29B.50.080

text:
(1) Every employer of a lobbyist registered under this title during the preceding calendar year and every person other than an individual who made contributions aggregating to more than *sixteen thousand dollars or independent expenditures aggregating to more than *eight hundred dollars during the preceding calendar year shall file with the commission on or before the last day of February of each year a statement disclosing for the preceding calendar year the following information:
(a) The name of each state elected official and the name of each candidate for state office who was elected to the office and any member of the immediate family of those persons to whom the person reporting has paid any compensation in the amount of eight hundred dollars or more during the preceding calendar year for personal employment or professional services, including professional services rendered by a corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, union, or other entity in which the person holds any office, directorship, or any general partnership interest, or an ownership interest of 10 percent or more, the value of the compensation in accordance with the reporting provisions set out in RCW 29B.55.030(3), and the consideration given or performed in exchange for the compensation.
(b) The name of each state elected official, successful candidate for state office, or members of the official's or candidate's immediate family to whom the person reporting made expenditures, directly or indirectly, either through a lobbyist or otherwise, the amount of the expenditures and the purpose for the expenditures. For the purposes of this subsection, "expenditure" shall not include any expenditure made by the employer in the ordinary course of business if the expenditure is not made for the purpose of influencing, honoring, or benefiting the elected official, successful candidate, or member of his immediate family, as an elected official or candidate.
(c) The total expenditures made by the person reporting for lobbying purposes, whether through or on behalf of a registered lobbyist or otherwise.
(d) All contributions made to a political committee supporting or opposing a candidate for state office, or to a political committee supporting or opposing a statewide ballot proposition. Such contributions shall be identified by the name and the address of the recipient and the aggregate amount contributed to each such recipient.
(e) The name and address of each registered lobbyist employed by the person reporting and the total expenditures made by the person reporting for each lobbyist for lobbying purposes.
(f) The names, offices sought, and party affiliations of candidates for state offices supported or opposed by independent expenditures of the person reporting and the amount of each such expenditure.
(g) The identifying proposition number and a brief description of any statewide ballot proposition supported or opposed by expenditures not reported under (d) of this subsection and the amount of each such expenditure.
(h) Any other information the commission prescribes by rule.
(2)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, an employer of a lobbyist registered under this title shall file a special report with the commission if the employer makes a contribution or contributions aggregating more than one hundred dollars in a calendar month to any one of the following: A candidate, elected official, officer or employee of an agency, or political committee. The report shall identify the date and amount of each such contribution and the name of the candidate, elected official, agency officer or employee, or political committee receiving the contribution or to be benefited by the contribution. The report shall be filed on a form prescribed by the commission and shall be filed within 15 days after the last day of the calendar month during which the contribution was made.
(b) The provisions of (a) of this subsection do not apply to a contribution that is made through a registered lobbyist and reportable under RCW 29B.40.080.
[ 2024 c 164 s 480; 2019 c 428 s 33; 2010 c 204 s 807; 1993 c 2 s 27 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992); 1990 c 139 s 4; 1987 c 423 s 2; 1984 c 34 s 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 11; 1973 c 1 s 18 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.630, 42.17.180.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400 and 390-20-150.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.
Legislative intent—1990 c 139: See note following RCW 29B.50.100.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Reports by employers of registered lobbyists, other persons.