title: RCW 29B.50.090

text:
(1) The house of representatives and the senate shall report annually: The total budget; the portion of the total attributed to staff; and the number of full-time and part-time staff positions by assignment, with dollar figures as well as number of positions.
(2) Unless authorized by subsection (3) of this section or otherwise expressly authorized by law, no public funds may be used directly or indirectly for lobbying. However, this does not prevent officers or employees of an agency from communicating with a member of the legislature on the request of that member; or communicating to the legislature, through the proper official channels, requests for legislative action or appropriations that are deemed necessary for the efficient conduct of the public business or actually made in the proper performance of their official duties. This subsection does not apply to the legislative branch.
(3) Any agency, not otherwise expressly authorized by law, may expend public funds for lobbying, but such lobbying activity shall be limited to (a) providing information or communicating on matters pertaining to official agency business to any elected official or officer or employee of any agency or (b) advocating the official position or interests of the agency to any elected official or officer or employee of any agency. Public funds may not be expended as a direct or indirect gift or campaign contribution to any elected official or officer or employee of any agency. For the purposes of this subsection, "gift" means a voluntary transfer of any thing of value without consideration of equal or greater value, but does not include informational material transferred for the sole purpose of informing the recipient about matters pertaining to official agency business. This section does not permit the printing of a state publication that has been otherwise prohibited by law.
(4) No elective official or any employee of his or her office or 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, in any effort to support or oppose an initiative to the legislature. "Facilities of a public office or agency" has the same meaning as in RCW 29B.45.010 and 42.52.180. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to the following activities:
(a) Action taken at an open public meeting by members of an elected legislative body to express a collective decision, or to actually vote upon a motion, proposal, resolution, order, or ordinance, or to support or oppose an initiative to the legislature so long as (i) any required notice of the meeting includes the title and number of the initiative to the legislature, and (ii) members of the legislative body or members of the public are afforded an approximately equal opportunity for the expression of an opposing view;
(b) A statement by an elected official in support of or in opposition to any initiative to the legislature at an open press conference or in response to a specific inquiry;
(c) Activities that are part of the normal and regular conduct of the office or agency;
(d) Activities conducted regarding an initiative to the legislature that would be permitted under RCW 29B.45.010 and 42.52.180 if conducted regarding other ballot measures.
(5) Each state agency, county, city, town, municipal corporation, quasi-municipal corporation, or special purpose district that expends public funds for lobbying shall file with the commission, except as exempted by (d) of this subsection, quarterly statements providing the following information for the quarter just completed:
(a) The name of the agency filing the statement;
(b) The name, title, and job description and salary of each elected official, officer, or employee who lobbied, a general description of the nature of the lobbying, and the proportionate amount of time spent on the lobbying;
(c) A listing of expenditures incurred by the agency for lobbying including but not limited to travel, consultant or other special contractual services, and brochures and other publications, the principal purpose of which is to influence legislation;
(d) For purposes of this subsection, "lobbying" does not include:
(i) Requests for appropriations by a state agency to the office of financial management pursuant to chapter 43.88 RCW nor requests by the office of financial management to the legislature for appropriations other than its own agency budget requests;
(ii) Recommendations or reports to the legislature in response to a legislative request expressly requesting or directing a specific study, recommendation, or report by an agency on a particular subject;
(iii) Official reports including recommendations submitted to the legislature on an annual or biennial basis by a state agency as required by law;
(iv) Requests, recommendations, or other communication between or within state agencies or between or within local agencies;
(v) Any other lobbying to the extent that it includes:
(A) Telephone conversations or preparation of written correspondence;
(B) In-person lobbying on behalf of an agency of no more than four days or parts thereof during any three-month period by officers or employees of that agency and in-person lobbying by any elected official of such agency on behalf of such agency or in connection with the powers, duties, or compensation of such official. The total expenditures of nonpublic funds made in connection with such lobbying 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 may not exceed fifteen dollars for any three-month period. The exemption under this subsection (5)(d)(v)(B) is in addition to the exemption provided in (d)(v)(A) of this subsection;
(C) Preparation or adoption of policy positions.
The statements shall be in the form and the manner prescribed by the commission and shall be filed within one month after the end of the quarter covered by the report.
(6) In lieu of reporting under subsection (5) of this section, any county, city, town, municipal corporation, quasi municipal corporation, or special purpose district may determine and so notify the public disclosure commission that elected officials, officers, or employees who, on behalf of any such local agency, engage in lobbying reportable under subsection (5) of this section shall register and report such reportable lobbying in the same manner as a lobbyist who is required to register and report under RCW 29B.50.010 and 29B.50.050. Each such local agency shall report as a lobbyist employer pursuant to RCW 29B.50.080.
(7) The provisions of this section do not relieve any elected official or officer or employee of an agency from complying with other provisions of this title, if such elected official, officer, or employee is not otherwise exempted.
(8) The purpose of this section is to require each state agency and certain local agencies to report the identities of those persons who lobby on behalf of the agency for compensation, together with certain separately identifiable and measurable expenditures of an agency's funds for that purpose. This section shall be reasonably construed to accomplish that purpose and not to require any agency to report any of its general overhead cost or any other costs that relate only indirectly or incidentally to lobbying or that are equally attributable to or inseparable from nonlobbying activities of the agency.
The public disclosure commission may adopt rules clarifying and implementing this legislative interpretation and policy.
[ 2024 c 164 s 481; 2010 c 204 s 808; 1995 c 397 s 7; 1986 c 239 s 1; 1979 ex.s. c 265 s 1; 1977 ex.s. c 313 s 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 12; 1973 c 1 s 19 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.635, 42.17.190.]
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.
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: Legislative activities of state agencies, other units of government, elective officials, employees.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 29B.50.100

text:
(1) Any person who has made expenditures, not reported by a registered lobbyist under RCW 29B.50.050 or by a candidate or political committee under RCW 29B.25.070 or 29B.25.090, exceeding *one thousand dollars in the aggregate within any three-month period or exceeding *five hundred dollars in the aggregate within any one-month period in presenting a campaign to the public, a substantial portion of which is intended, designed, or calculated primarily to solicit, urge, or encourage the public to influence legislation, shall register and report, as provided in subsection (2) of this section, as a sponsor of a grass roots lobbying campaign.
(2)(a) The sponsor shall register by filing with the commission a registration statement:
(i) Within 24 hours of the initial presentation of the campaign to the public during the period:
(A) Beginning on the 30th day before a regular legislative session convenes and continuing through the date of final adjournment of that session; or
(B) Beginning on the date that a special legislative session has been called or 30 days before the special legislative session is scheduled to convene, whichever is later, and continuing through the date of final adjournment of that session; or
(ii) Within five business days of the initial presentation of the campaign to the public during any other period.
(b) The registration must show, in such detail as the commission shall prescribe:
(i) The sponsor's name, address, and business or occupation and employer, and, if the sponsor is not an individual, the names, addresses, and titles of the controlling persons responsible for managing the sponsor's affairs;
(ii) The names, addresses, and business or occupation and employer of all persons organizing and managing the campaign, or hired to assist the campaign, including any public relations or advertising firms participating in the campaign, and the terms of compensation for all such persons;
(iii) Each source of funding for the campaign of $25 or more, including:
(A) General treasury funds. The name and address of each business, union, group, association, or other organization using general treasury funds for the campaign; however, if such entity undertakes a special solicitation of its members or other persons for the campaign, or it otherwise receives funds for the campaign, that entity shall report pursuant to (b)(ii) of this subsection; and
(B) Special solicitations and other funds. The name, address, and, for individuals, occupation and employer, of a person whose funds were used to pay for the campaign, along with the amount;
(iv) The purpose of the campaign, including the specific legislation, rules, rates, standards, or proposals that are the subject matter of the campaign;
(v) The totals of all expenditures made or incurred to date on behalf of the campaign segregated according to financial category, including but not limited to the following: Advertising, segregated by media, and in the case of large expenditures (as provided by rule of the commission), by outlet; contributions; entertainment, including food and refreshments; office expenses including rent and the salaries and wages paid for staff and secretarial assistance, or the proportionate amount paid or incurred for lobbying campaign activities; consultants; and printing and mailing expenses; and
(vi) Such other information as shall be required by the commission by rule in conformance with the policies and purposes of this title.
(3) Every sponsor who has registered under this section shall file monthly reports with the commission by the 10th day of the month for the activity during the preceding month. The reports shall update the information contained in the sponsor's registration statement and in prior reports and shall show contributions received and totals of expenditures made during the month, in the same manner as provided for in the registration statement.
(4) When the campaign has been terminated, the sponsor shall file a notice of termination with the final monthly report. The final report shall state the totals of all contributions and expenditures made on behalf of the campaign, in the same manner as provided for in the registration statement.
(5)(a) Any advertising or other mass communication produced as part of a campaign must include the following disclosures:
(i) All written communications shall include the sponsor's name and address. All radio and television communications shall include the sponsor's name. The use of an assumed name for the sponsor is unlawful;
(ii) If the sponsor is a political committee established, maintained, or controlled directly, or indirectly through the formation of one or more political committees, by an individual, corporation, union, association, or other entity, the communication must include the full name of that individual or entity; and
(iii) If the communication costs $1,000 or more, the communication must include:
(A) The statement "Top Five Contributors," followed by a listing of the names of each of the five largest sources of funding of $1,000 or more, as reported under subsection (2)(b) of this section, during the 12-month period preceding the date on which the advertisement is initially to be published or otherwise presented to the public; and
(B) If one of the "Top Five Contributors" listed includes a political committee, the statement "Top Three Donors to PAC Contributors," followed by a listing of the names of the three individuals or entities other than political committees making the largest aggregate contributions to political committees using the same methodology as provided in RCW 29B.30.100(2).
(b) Abbreviations may be used to describe entities required to be listed under (a) of this subsection if the full name of the entity has been clearly spoken previously during the communication. The information required by (a) of this subsection shall:
(i) In a written communication:
(A) Appear on the first page or fold of the written advertisement or communication in at least 10-point type, or in type at least 10 percent of the largest size type used in a written communication directed at more than one voter, such as a billboard or poster, whichever is larger;
(B) Not be subject to the half-tone or screening process; and
(C) Be set apart from any other printed matter. No text may be before, after, or immediately adjacent to the information required by (a) of this subsection; or
(ii) In a communication transmitted via television or another medium that includes a visual image or audio:
(A) Be clearly spoken; or
(B) Appear in print and be visible for at least four seconds, appear in letters greater than four percent of the visual screen height on a solid black background on the entire bottom one-third of the television or visual display screen, or bottom one-fourth of the screen if the sponsor does not have or is otherwise not required to list its top five contributors, and have a reasonable color contrast with the background.
(6) The commission is authorized to adopt rules, as needed, to prevent ways to circumvent the purposes of the required disclosures in this section or otherwise in conformance with the policies and purposes of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 482; 2023 c 413 s 1; 2010 c 204 s 809; 1990 c 139 s 5; 1985 c 367 s 10; 1973 c 1 s 20 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.640, 42.17.200.]
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—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Legislative intent—1990 c 139: "The provisions of this act which repeal the reporting requirements established by chapter 423, Laws of 1987 for registered lobbyists and employers of lobbyists are not intended to alter, expand, or restrict whatsoever the definition of "lobby" or "lobbying" contained in RCW 42.17.020 as it existed prior to the enactment of chapter 423, Laws of 1987." [ 1990 c 139 s 1.]
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: Grass roots lobbying campaigns.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 29B.50.110

text:
If any person registered or required to be registered as a lobbyist, or any employer of any person registered or required to be registered as a lobbyist, employs a member or an employee of the legislature, a member of a state board or commission, or a full-time state employee, and that new employee remains in the partial employ of the state, the new employer must file within 15 days after employment a statement with the commission, signed under oath, setting out the nature of the employment, the name of the person employed, and the amount of pay or consideration.
[ 2024 c 164 s 483; 2010 c 204 s 810; 1973 c 1 s 21 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.645, 42.17.210.]
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—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Employment of legislators, board or commission members, or state employees—Statement, contents.


title: RCW 29B.50.120

text:
It is a violation of this title for any person to employ for pay or any consideration, or pay or agree to pay any consideration to, a person to lobby who is not registered under this title except upon the condition that such a person must register as a lobbyist as provided by this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 484; 2010 c 204 s 811; 1973 c 1 s 22 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.650, 42.17.220.]
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—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Employment of unregistered persons.


title: RCW 29B.50.130

text:
(1) A person required to register as a lobbyist under RCW 29B.50.010 shall substantiate financial reports required to be made under this title with accounts, bills, receipts, books, papers, and other necessary documents and records. All such documents must be obtained and preserved for a period of at least five years from the date of filing the statement containing such items and shall be made available for inspection by the commission at any time. If the terms of the lobbyist's employment contract require that these records be turned over to the lobbyist's employer, responsibility for the preservation and inspection of these records under this subsection shall be with such employer.
(2) A person required to register as a lobbyist under RCW 29B.50.010 shall not:
(a) Engage in any lobbying activity before registering as a lobbyist;
(b) Knowingly deceive or attempt to deceive a legislator regarding the facts pertaining to any pending or proposed legislation;
(c) Cause or influence the introduction of a bill or amendment to that bill for the purpose of later being employed to secure its defeat;
(d) Knowingly represent an interest adverse to the lobbyist's employer without full disclosure of the adverse interest to the employer and obtaining the employer's written consent;
(e) Exercise any undue influence, extortion, or unlawful retaliation upon any legislator due to the legislator's position or vote on any pending or proposed legislation;
(f) Enter into any agreement, arrangement, or understanding in which any portion of the lobbyist's compensation is or will be contingent upon the lobbyist's success in influencing legislation.
(3) A violation by a lobbyist of this section shall be cause for revocation of the lobbyist's registration, and may subject the lobbyist and the lobbyist's employer, if the employer aids, abets, ratifies, or confirms the violation, to other civil liabilities as provided by this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 485; 2019 c 428 s 34; 2010 c 204 s 812; 1987 c 201 s 2; 1982 c 147 s 14; 1973 c 1 s 23 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.655, 42.17.230.]
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 date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Lobbyists' duties, restrictions—Penalties for violations.


title: RCW 29B.55.010

text:
(1) After January 1st and before April 15th of each year, every elected official and every executive state officer who served for any portion of the preceding year shall electronically file with the commission a statement of financial affairs for the preceding calendar year or for that portion of the year served. Any official or officer in office for any period of time in a calendar year, but not in office as of January 1st of the following year, may electronically file either within 60 days of leaving office or during the January 1st through April 15th reporting period of that following year. Such filing must include information for the portion of the current calendar year for which the official or officer was in office.
(2) Within two weeks of becoming a candidate, every candidate shall file with the commission a statement of financial affairs for the preceding 12 months.
(3) Within two weeks of appointment, every person appointed to a vacancy in an elective office or executive state officer position during the months of January through November shall file with the commission a statement of financial affairs for the preceding 12 months, except as provided in subsection (4) of this section. For appointments made in December, the appointee must file the statement of financial affairs between January 1st and January 15th of the immediate following year for the preceding 12-month period ending on December 31st.
(4) A statement of a candidate or appointee filed during the period from January 1st to April 15th shall cover the period from January 1st of the preceding calendar year to the time of candidacy or appointment if the filing of the statement would relieve the individual of a prior obligation to file a statement covering the entire preceding calendar year.
(5) No individual may be required to file more than once in any calendar year.
(6) Each statement of financial affairs filed under this section shall be sworn as to its truth and accuracy.
(7) Every elected official and every executive state officer shall file with their statement of financial affairs a statement certifying that they have read and are familiar with RCW 29B.45.010 or 42.52.180, whichever is applicable.
(8) For the purposes of this section, the term "executive state officer" includes those listed in RCW 29B.55.020.
(9) This section does not apply to incumbents or candidates for a federal office or the office of precinct committee officer.
[ 2024 c 164 s 486; 2019 c 428 s 35; 2010 c 204 s 901; 1995 c 397 s 8; 1993 c 2 s 31 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992); 1989 c 158 s 1; 1987 c 295 s 19. Prior: 1984 c 125 s 14; 1984 c 34 s 1; 1983 c 161 s 27; 1982 c 10 s 9; prior: 1981 c 311 s 20; 1981 c 67 s 15; 1979 ex.s. c 265 s 3; 1979 c 151 s 73; prior: 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 7; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 104 s 1 (Ref. Bill No. 36); 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 13; 1973 c 1 s 24 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.700, 42.17.240.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2019 c 428 ss 35 and 36: "Sections 35 and 36 of this act take effect January 1, 2020." [ 2019 c 428 s 43.]
Finding—2019 c 428: See note 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.
Effective dates—1983 c 161: See RCW 43.180.904.
Severability—1982 c 10: See note following RCW 6.13.080.
Effective dates—Severability—1981 c 67: See notes following RCW 34.12.010.
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.
Cemetery district commissioners exempt from chapter: RCW 68.52.140, 68.52.220.

catchline: Elected officials, executive state officers, candidates, and appointees—Statement of financial affairs.


title: RCW 29B.55.020

text:
For the purposes of RCW 29B.55.010, "executive state officer" includes:
(1) The chief administrative law judge, the director of agriculture, the director of the department of services for the blind, the secretary of children, youth, and families, the director of the state system of community and technical colleges, the director of commerce, the director of Washington technology solutions, the secretary of corrections, the director of ecology, the commissioner of employment security, the chair of the energy facility site evaluation council, the director of enterprise services, the secretary of the state finance committee, the director of financial management, the director of fish and wildlife, the executive secretary of the forest practices appeals board, the director of the gambling commission, the secretary of health, the administrator of the Washington state health care authority, the executive secretary of the health care facilities authority, the executive secretary of the higher education facilities authority, the executive secretary of the horse racing commission, the executive secretary of the human rights commission, the executive secretary of the indeterminate sentence review board, the executive director of the state investment board, the director of labor and industries, the director of licensing, the director of the lottery commission, the director of the office of minority and women's business enterprises, the director of parks and recreation, the executive director of the public disclosure commission, the executive director of the Puget Sound partnership, the director of the recreation and conservation office, the director of retirement systems, the director of revenue, the secretary of social and health services, the chief of the Washington state patrol, the executive secretary of the board of tax appeals, the secretary of transportation, the secretary of the utilities and transportation commission, the director of veterans affairs, the president of each of the regional and state universities and the president of The Evergreen State College, and each district and each campus president of each state community college;
(2) Each professional staff member of the office of the governor;
(3) Each professional staff member of the legislature; and
(4) Central Washington University board of trustees, the boards of trustees of each community college and each technical college, each member of the state board for community and technical colleges, state convention and trade center board of directors, Eastern Washington University board of trustees, Washington economic development finance authority, Washington energy northwest executive board, The Evergreen State College board of trustees, executive ethics board, fish and wildlife commission, forest practices appeals board, forest practices board, gambling commission, Washington health care facilities authority, student achievement council, higher education facilities authority, horse racing commission, state housing finance commission, human rights commission, indeterminate sentence review board, board of industrial insurance appeals, state investment board, commission on judicial conduct, legislative ethics board, life sciences discovery fund authority board of trustees, state liquor and cannabis board, lottery commission, Pacific Northwest electric power and conservation planning council, parks and recreation commission, Washington personnel resources board, board of pilotage commissioners, pollution control hearings board, public disclosure commission, public employees' benefits board, recreation and conservation funding board, salmon recovery funding board, shorelines hearings board, board of tax appeals, transportation commission, University of Washington board of regents, utilities and transportation commission, Washington State University board of regents, and Western Washington University board of trustees.
[ 2024 c 164 s 487; 2024 c 54 s 40; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 s 111. Prior: 2015 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 406; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 1 s 317; 2012 c 229 s 582; 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 109; 2010 c 204 s 902; 2009 c 565 s 24; prior: 2007 c 341 s 48; 2007 c 241 s 2; 2007 c 15 s 1; 2006 c 265 s 113; 2005 c 424 s 17; prior: 2001 c 36 s 1; 2001 c 9 s 1; 1996 c 186 s 504; prior: 1995 c 399 s 60; 1995 c 397 s 10; prior: 1993 sp.s. c 2 s 18; 1993 c 492 s 488; 1993 c 281 s 43; 1991 c 200 s 404; 1991 c 3 s 293; prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 812; 1989 c 279 s 22; 1989 c 158 s 2; 1988 c 36 s 13; 1987 c 504 s 14; 1985 c 6 s 8; 1984 c 34 s 2. Formerly RCW 42.17A.705, 42.17.2401.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2024 c 54 s 40 and by 2024 c 164 s 487, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 ss 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Effective date—2015 3rd sp.s. c 1 ss 101-109, 201-224, 406-408, 410, 501-507, 601, and 602: See note following RCW 43.105.007.
Effective date—2012 c 229 ss 101, 117, 401, 402, 501 through 594, 601 through 609, 701 through 708, 801 through 821, 902, and 904: See note following RCW 28B.77.005.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 109: "Section 109 of this act takes effect January 1, 2012." [ 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 111.]
Purpose—2011 1st sp.s. c 43: See note following RCW 43.19.003.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Alphabetization—2010 c 204 s 902: "When RCW 42.17A.705 is codified, the code reviser shall arrange the names of the agencies in each subsection in alphabetical order, arranged according to the first distinctive word of each agency's name." [ 2010 c 204 s 1101.]
Effective date—2007 c 341: See RCW 90.71.907.
Intent—Effective date—2007 c 241: See notes following RCW 79A.25.005.
Effective date—2006 c 265: See RCW 43.216.902.
Findings—Intent—Part headings not law—Effective date—1996 c 186: See notes following RCW 43.330.904.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 ss 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.
Effective date—1993 c 281: See note following RCW 41.06.022.
Effective dates—1991 c 200: See RCW 90.56.901.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Alphabetization—1989 c 158 s 2: "When section 2 of this act is codified, the code reviser shall arrange the names of the agencies in each subsection in alphabetical order." [ 1989 c 158 s 3.] The names of the agencies in the above section have been arranged according to the first distinctive word of each agency's name.

catchline: "Executive state officer" defined.


title: RCW 29B.55.030

text:
(1) The statement of financial affairs required by RCW 29B.55.010 shall disclose the following information for the reporting individual and each member of the reporting individual's immediate family:
(a) Occupation, name of employer, and business address;
(b) Each bank account, savings account, and insurance policy in which a direct financial interest was held that exceeds *twenty thousand dollars at any time during the reporting period; each other item of intangible personal property in which a direct financial interest was held that exceeds *two thousand dollars during the reporting period; the name, address, and nature of the entity; and the nature and highest value of each direct financial interest during the reporting period;
(c) The name and address of each creditor to whom the value of *two thousand dollars or more was owed; the original amount of each debt to each creditor; the amount of each debt owed to each creditor as of the date of filing; the terms of repayment of each debt; and the security given, if any, for each such debt. Debts arising from a "retail installment transaction" as defined in chapter 63.14 RCW (retail installment sales act) need not be reported;
(d) Every public or private office, directorship, and position held as trustee; except that an elected official or executive state officer need not report the elected official's or executive state officer's service on a governmental board, commission, association, or functional equivalent, when such service is part of the elected official's or executive state officer's official duties;
(e) All persons for whom any legislation, rule, rate, or standard has been prepared, promoted, or opposed for current or deferred compensation. For the purposes of this subsection, "compensation" does not include payments made to the person reporting by the governmental entity for which the person serves as an elected official or state executive officer or professional staff member for the person's service in office; the description of such actual or proposed legislation, rules, rates, or standards; and the amount of current or deferred compensation paid or promised to be paid;
(f) The name and address of each governmental entity, corporation, partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship, association, union, or other business or commercial entity from whom compensation has been received in any form of a total value of *two thousand dollars or more; the value of the compensation; and the consideration given or performed in exchange for the compensation;
(g) The name of any corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, union, or other entity in which is held any office, directorship, or any general partnership interest, or an ownership interest of ten percent or more; the name or title of that office, directorship, or partnership; the nature of ownership interest; and: (i) With respect to a governmental unit in which the official seeks or holds any office or position, if the entity has received compensation in any form during the preceding twelve months from the governmental unit, the value of the compensation and the consideration given or performed in exchange for the compensation; and (ii) the name of each governmental unit, corporation, partnership, joint venture, sole proprietorship, association, union, or other business or commercial entity from which the entity has received compensation in any form in the amount of *ten thousand dollars or more during the preceding twelve months and the consideration given or performed in exchange for the compensation. As used in (g)(ii) of this subsection, "compensation" does not include payment for water and other utility services at rates approved by the Washington state utilities and transportation commission or the legislative authority of the public entity providing the service. With respect to any bank or commercial lending institution in which is held any office, directorship, partnership interest, or ownership interest, it shall only be necessary to report either the name, address, and occupation of every director and officer of the bank or commercial lending institution and the average monthly balance of each account held during the preceding twelve months by the bank or commercial lending institution from the governmental entity for which the individual is an official or candidate or professional staff member, or all interest paid by a borrower on loans from and all interest paid to a depositor by the bank or commercial lending institution if the interest exceeds *two thousand four hundred dollars;
(h) A list, including legal or other sufficient descriptions as prescribed by the commission, of all real property in the state of Washington, the assessed valuation of which exceeds *ten thousand dollars in which any direct financial interest was acquired during the preceding calendar year, and a statement of the amount and nature of the financial interest and of the consideration given in exchange for that interest;
(i) A list, including legal or other sufficient descriptions as prescribed by the commission, of all real property in the state of Washington, the assessed valuation of which exceeds *ten thousand dollars in which any direct financial interest was divested during the preceding calendar year, and a statement of the amount and nature of the consideration received in exchange for that interest, and the name and address of the person furnishing the consideration;
(j) A list, including legal or other sufficient descriptions as prescribed by the commission, of all real property in the state of Washington, the assessed valuation of which exceeds *ten thousand dollars in which a direct financial interest was held. If a description of the property has been included in a report previously filed, the property may be listed, for purposes of this subsection (1)(j), by reference to the previously filed report;
(k) A list, including legal or other sufficient descriptions as prescribed by the commission, of all real property in the state of Washington, the assessed valuation of which exceeds *twenty thousand dollars, in which a corporation, partnership, firm, enterprise, or other entity had a direct financial interest, in which corporation, partnership, firm, or enterprise a ten percent or greater ownership interest was held;
(l) A list of each occasion, specifying date, donor, and amount, at which food and beverage in excess of $100 was accepted under RCW 42.52.150(7);
(m) A list of each occasion, specifying date, donor, and amount, at which items specified in RCW 42.52.150(1)(c) (iv) and (vi) were accepted; and
(n) Such other information as the commission may deem necessary in order to properly carry out the purposes and policies of this title, as the commission shall prescribe by rule.
(2)(a) When judges, prosecutors, sheriffs, participants in the address confidentiality program under RCW 40.24.030, or their immediate family members are required to disclose real property that is the personal residence of the judge, prosecutor, sheriff, or address confidentiality program participant, the requirements of subsection (1)(h) through (k) of this section may be satisfied for that property by substituting:
(i) The city or town;
(ii) The type of residence, such as a single-family or multifamily residence, and the nature of ownership; and
(iii) Such other identifying information the commission prescribes by rule for the mailing address where the property is located.
(b) Nothing in this subsection relieves the judge, prosecutor, or sheriff of any other applicable obligations to disclose potential conflicts or to recuse oneself.
(3)(a) Where an amount is required to be reported under subsection (1)(a) through (m) of this section, it may be reported within a range as provided in (b) of this subsection.
(b)
Code A
Less than thirty thousand dollars;
Code B
At least thirty thousand dollars, but less than sixty thousand dollars;
Code C
At least sixty thousand dollars, but less than one hundred thousand dollars;
Code D
At least one hundred thousand dollars, but less than two hundred thousand dollars;
Code E
At least two hundred thousand dollars, but less than five hundred thousand dollars;
Code F
At least five hundred thousand dollars, but less than seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars;
Code G
At least seven hundred fifty thousand dollars, but less than one million dollars; or
Code H
One million dollars or more.
(c) An amount of stock may be reported by number of shares instead of by market value. No provision of this subsection may be interpreted to prevent any person from filing more information or more detailed information than required.
(4) Items of value given to an official's or employee's spouse, domestic partner, or family member are attributable to the official or employee, except the item is not attributable if an independent business, family, or social relationship exists between the donor and the spouse, domestic partner, or family member.
[ 2025 c 377 s 28; 2024 c 164 s 488; 2023 c 462 s 502; 2019 c 428 s 36; 2010 c 204 s 903; 2008 c 6 s 202; 1995 c 397 s 9; 1984 c 34 s 3; 1979 ex.s. c 126 s 42. Formerly RCW 42.17A.710, 42.17.241.]
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 390-24-301.
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—2019 c 428 ss 35 and 36: See note following RCW 29B.55.010.
Finding—2019 c 428: See note 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.
Part headings not law—Severability—2008 c 6: See RCW 26.60.900 and 26.60.901.
Effective date—1995 c 397: See note following RCW 29B.40.020.
Purpose—1979 ex.s. c 126: See RCW 29A.60.280(1).

catchline: Statement of financial affairs—Contents.


title: RCW 29B.55.040

text:
No payment shall be made to any person required to report under RCW 29B.55.010 and no payment shall be accepted by any such person, 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 payment or in any other manner so as to effect concealment. The commission may issue categorical and specific exemptions to the reporting of the actual source when there is an undisclosed principal for recognized legitimate business purposes.
[ 2024 c 164 s 489; 2010 c 204 s 904; 1977 ex.s. c 336 s 4. Formerly RCW 42.17A.715, 42.17.242.]
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.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 336: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.

catchline: Concealing identity of source of payment prohibited—Exception.


title: RCW 29B.60.010

text:
(1) In addition to the penalties in subsection (2) of this section, and any other remedies provided by law, one or more of the following civil remedies and sanctions may be imposed by court order in addition to any other remedies provided by law:
(a) If the court finds that the violation of any provision of this title by any candidate, committee, or incidental committee probably affected the outcome of any election, the result of that election may be held void and a special election held within 60 days of the finding. Any action to void an election shall be commenced within one year of the date of the election in question. It is intended that this remedy be imposed freely in all appropriate cases to protect the right of the electorate to an informed and knowledgeable vote.
(b) If any lobbyist or sponsor of any grass roots lobbying campaign violates any of the provisions of this title, the lobbyist's or sponsor's registration may be revoked or suspended and the lobbyist or sponsor may be enjoined from receiving compensation or making expenditures for lobbying. The imposition of a sanction shall not excuse the lobbyist from filing statements and reports required by this title.
(c) A person who violates any of the provisions of this title may be subject to a civil penalty of not more than ten thousand dollars for each violation. However, a person or entity who violates RCW 29B.40.020 may be subject to a civil penalty of ten thousand dollars or three times the amount of the contribution illegally made or accepted, whichever is greater.
(d) When assessing a civil penalty, the court may consider the nature of the violation and any relevant circumstances, including the following factors:
(i) The respondent's compliance history, including whether the noncompliance was isolated or limited in nature, indicative of systematic or ongoing problems, or part of a pattern of violations by the respondent, resulted from a knowing or intentional effort to conceal, deceive or mislead, or from collusive behavior, or in the case of a political committee or other entity, part of a pattern of violations by the respondent's officers, staff, principal decision makers, consultants, or sponsoring organization;
(ii) The impact on the public, including whether the noncompliance deprived the public of timely or accurate information during a time-sensitive period or otherwise had a significant or material impact on the public;
(iii) Experience with campaign finance law and procedures or the financing, staffing, or size of the respondent's campaign or organization;
(iv) The amount of financial activity by the respondent during the statement period or election cycle;
(v) Whether the late or unreported activity was within three times the contribution limit per election, including in proportion to the total amount of expenditures by the respondent in the campaign or statement period;
(vi) Whether the respondent or any person benefited politically or economically from the noncompliance;
(vii) Whether there was a personal emergency or illness of the respondent or member of the respondent's immediate family;
(viii) Whether other emergencies such as fire, flood, or utility failure prevented filing;
(ix) Whether there was commission staff or equipment error, including technical problems at the commission that prevented or delayed electronic filing;
(x) The respondent's demonstrated good-faith uncertainty concerning commission staff guidance or instructions;
(xi) Whether the respondent is a first-time filer;
(xii) Good faith efforts to comply, including consultation with commission staff prior to initiation of enforcement action and cooperation with commission staff during enforcement action and a demonstrated wish to acknowledge and take responsibility for the violation;
(xiii) Penalties imposed in factually similar cases; and
(xiv) Other factors relevant to the particular case.
(e) A person who fails to file a properly completed statement or report within the time required by this title may be subject to a civil penalty of ten dollars per day for each day each delinquency continues.
(f) Each state agency director who knowingly fails to file statements required by RCW 29B.50.090 shall be subject to personal liability in the form of a civil penalty in the amount of one hundred dollars per statement. These penalties are in addition to any other civil remedies or sanctions imposed on the agency.
(g) A person who fails to report a contribution or expenditure as required by this title may be subject to a civil penalty equivalent to the amount not reported as required.
(h) Any state agency official, officer, or employee who is responsible for or knowingly directs or expends public funds in violation of RCW 29B.50.090 (2) or (3) may be subject to personal liability in the form of a civil penalty in an amount that is at least equivalent to the amount of public funds expended in the violation.
(i) The court may enjoin any person to prevent the doing of any act herein prohibited, or to compel the performance of any act required herein.
(2) The commission may refer the following violations for criminal prosecution:
(a) A person who, with actual malice, violates a provision of this title is guilty of a misdemeanor under chapter 9.92 RCW;
(b) A person who, within a five-year period, with actual malice, violates three or more provisions of this title is guilty of a gross misdemeanor under chapter 9.92 RCW; and
(c) A person who, with actual malice, procures or offers any false or forged document to be filed, registered, or recorded with the commission under this title is guilty of a class C felony under chapter 9.94A RCW.
[ 2024 c 164 s 490; 2019 c 428 s 37; 2018 c 304 s 12; 2013 c 166 s 1; 2011 c 145 s 6; 2010 c 204 s 1001; 2006 c 315 s 2; 1993 c 2 s 28 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992); 1973 c 1 s 39 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.750, 42.17.390.]
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.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
Effective date—2013 c 166: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2011 c 145: See notes following RCW 29B.25.020.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Intent—2006 c 315: "It is the intent of the legislature to increase the authority of the public disclosure commission to more effectively foster compliance with our state's public disclosure and fair campaign practices act. It is the intent of the legislature to make the agency's penalty authority for violations of this chapter more consistent with other agencies that enforce state ethics laws and more commensurate with the level of political spending in the state of Washington." [ 2006 c 315 s 1.]
Severability—2006 c 315: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2006 c 315 s 4.]
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Civil remedies and sanctions—Referral for criminal prosecution.


title: RCW 29B.60.020

text:
(1) The commission may initiate or respond to a complaint, request a technical correction, or otherwise resolve matters of compliance with this title, in accordance with this section. If a complaint is filed with or initiated by the commission, the commission must:
(a) Dismiss the complaint or otherwise resolve the matter in accordance with subsection (2) of this section, as appropriate under the circumstances after conducting a preliminary review;
(b) Initiate an investigation to determine whether a violation has occurred, conduct hearings, and issue and enforce an appropriate order, in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW and subsection (3) of this section; or
(c) Refer the matter to the attorney general, in accordance with subsection (4) of this section.
(2)(a) For complaints of remediable violations or requests for technical corrections, the commission may, by rule, delegate authority to its executive director to resolve these matters in accordance with subsection (1)(a) of this section, provided the executive director consistently applies such authority.
(b) The commission shall, by rule, develop additional processes by which a respondent may agree by stipulation to any allegations and pay a penalty subject to a schedule of violations and penalties, unless waived by the commission as provided for in this section. Any stipulation must be referred to the commission for review. If approved or modified by the commission, agreed to by the parties, and the respondent complies with all requirements set forth in the stipulation, the matter is then considered resolved and no further action or review is allowed.
(3) If the commission initiates an investigation, an initial hearing must be held within 90 days of the complaint being filed. Following an investigation, in cases where it chooses to determine whether a violation has occurred, the commission shall hold a hearing pursuant to the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. Any order that the commission issues under this section shall be pursuant to such a hearing.
(a) The person against whom an order is directed under this section shall be designated as the respondent. The order may require the respondent to cease and desist from the activity that constitutes a violation and in addition, or alternatively, may impose one or more of the remedies provided in RCW 29B.60.010(1) (b) through (h), or other requirements as the commission determines appropriate to effectuate the purposes of this title.
(b) The commission may assess a penalty in an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars per violation, unless the parties stipulate otherwise. Any order that the commission issues under this section that imposes a financial penalty must be made pursuant to a hearing, held in accordance with the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(c) The commission has the authority to waive a penalty for a first-time violation. A second violation of the same requirement by the same person, regardless if the person or individual committed the violation for a different political committee or incidental committee, shall result in a penalty. Successive violations of the same requirement shall result in successively increased penalties. The commission may suspend any portion of an assessed penalty contingent on future compliance with this title. The commission must create a schedule to enhance penalties based on repeat violations by the person.
(d) Any order issued by the commission is subject to judicial review under the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. If the commission's order is not satisfied and no petition for review is filed within 30 days, the commission may petition a court of competent jurisdiction of any county in which a petition for review could be filed under that jurisdiction, for an order of enforcement. Proceedings in connection with the commission's petition shall be in accordance with RCW 29B.60.030.
(4) In lieu of holding a hearing or issuing an order under this section, the commission may refer the matter to the attorney general consistent with this section, when the commission believes:
(a) Additional authority is needed to ensure full compliance with this title;
(b) An apparent violation potentially warrants a penalty greater than the commission's penalty authority; or
(c) The maximum penalty the commission is able to levy is not enough to address the severity of the violation.
(5) Prior to filing a citizen's action under RCW 29B.60.060, a person who has filed a complaint pursuant to this section must provide written notice to the attorney general if the commission does not, within 90 days of the complaint being filed with the commission, take action pursuant to subsection (1) of this section. A person must simultaneously provide a copy of the written notice to the commission.
[ 2024 c 164 s 491; 2019 c 428 s 38; 2018 c 304 s 13; 2011 c 145 s 7; 2010 c 204 s 1002; 2006 c 315 s 3; 1989 c 175 s 91; 1985 c 367 s 12; 1982 c 147 s 16; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 12. Formerly RCW 42.17A.755, 42.17.395.]
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.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2011 c 145: See notes following RCW 29B.25.020.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Intent—Severability—2006 c 315: See notes following RCW 29B.60.010.
Effective date—1989 c 175: See note following RCW 34.05.010.
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: "The provisions of this 1976 amendatory act are intended to be remedial and shall be liberally construed, and nothing in this 1976 amendatory act shall be construed to limit the power of the commission under any other provision of chapter 42.17 RCW." [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 15. Formerly RCW 42.17A.907, 42.17.945.]


title: RCW 29B.60.030

text:
The following procedure shall apply in all cases where the commission has petitioned a court of competent jurisdiction for enforcement of any order it has issued pursuant to this title:
(1) A copy of the petition shall be served by certified mail directed to the respondent at his or her last known address. The court shall issue an order directing the respondent to appear at a time designated in the order, not less than five days from the date thereof, and show cause why the commission's order should not be enforced according to its terms.
(2) The commission's order shall be enforced by the court if the respondent does not appear, or if the respondent appears and the court finds, pursuant to a hearing held for that purpose:
(a) That the commission's order is unsatisfied;
(b) That the order is regular on its face; and
(c) That the respondent's answer discloses no valid reason why the commission's order should not be enforced or that the respondent had an appropriate remedy by review under RCW 34.05.570(3) and failed to avail himself or herself of that remedy without valid excuse.
(3) Upon appropriate application by the respondent, the court may, after hearing and for good cause, alter, amend, revise, suspend, or postpone all or part of the commission's order. In any case where the order is not enforced by the court according to its terms, the reasons for the court's actions shall be clearly stated in writing, and the action shall be subject to review by the appellate courts by certiorari or other appropriate proceeding.
(4) The court's order of enforcement, when entered, shall have the same force and effect as a civil judgment.
(5) Notwithstanding RCW 34.05.578 through 34.05.590, this section is the exclusive method for enforcing an order of the commission.
[ 2024 c 164 s 492; 2010 c 204 s 1003; 1989 c 175 s 92; 1982 c 147 s 17; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 13. Formerly RCW 42.17A.760, 42.17.397.]
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—1989 c 175: See note following RCW 34.05.010.
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: See note following RCW 29B.60.020.

catchline: Procedure upon petition for enforcement of order of commission—Court's order of enforcement.


title: RCW 29B.60.040

text:
(1)(a) The attorney general may bring civil actions in the name of the state for any appropriate civil remedy, including but not limited to the special remedies provided in RCW 29B.60.010 upon:
(i) Referral by the commission pursuant to RCW 29B.60.020(4);
(ii) Receipt of a notice provided in accordance with RCW 29B.60.020(5); or
(iii) Receipt of a notice of intent to commence a citizen's action, as provided under RCW 29B.60.060(3).
(b) Within 45 days of receiving a referral from the commission or notice of the commission's failure to take action provided in accordance with RCW 29B.60.020(5), or within 10 days of receiving a citizen's action notice, the attorney general must publish a decision whether to commence an action on the attorney general's office website. Publication of the decision within the 45 day period, or ten-day period, whichever is applicable, shall preclude a citizen's action pursuant to RCW 29B.60.060.
(c) The attorney general should use the enforcement powers in this section in a consistent manner that provides guidance in complying with the provisions of this title to candidates, political committees, or other individuals subject to the regulations of this title.
(2) The attorney general may investigate or cause to be investigated the activities of any person who there is reason to believe is or has been acting in violation of this title, and may require any such person or any other person reasonably believed to have information concerning the activities of such person to appear at a time and place designated in the county in which such person resides or is found, to give such information under oath and to produce all accounts, bills, receipts, books, paper and documents which may be relevant or material to any investigation authorized under this title.
(3) When the attorney general requires the attendance of any person to obtain such information or produce the accounts, bills, receipts, books, papers, and documents that may be relevant or material to any investigation authorized under this title, the attorney general shall issue an order setting forth the time when and the place where attendance is required and shall cause the same to be delivered to or sent by registered mail to the person at least 14 days before the date fixed for attendance. The order shall have the same force and effect as a subpoena, shall be effective statewide, and, upon application of the attorney general, obedience to the order may be enforced by any superior court judge in the county where the person receiving it resides or is found, in the same manner as though the order were a subpoena. The court, after hearing, for good cause, and upon application of any person aggrieved by the order, shall have the right to alter, amend, revise, suspend, or postpone all or any part of its provisions. In any case where the order is not enforced by the court according to its terms, the reasons for the court's actions shall be clearly stated in writing, and the action shall be subject to review by the appellate courts by certiorari or other appropriate proceeding.
[ 2024 c 164 s 493; 2019 c 428 s 39; 2018 c 304 s 14; 2010 c 204 s 1004; 2007 c 455 s 1; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 27; 1973 c 1 s 40 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.765, 42.17.400.]
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.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
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: Enforcement—Attorney general.


title: RCW 29B.60.050

text:
Except as provided in RCW 29B.60.060(4), any action brought under the provisions of this title must be commenced within five years after the date when the violation occurred.
[ 2024 c 164 s 494; 2018 c 304 s 15; 2011 c 60 s 26; 2007 c 455 s 2; 1982 c 147 s 18; 1973 c 1 s 41 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.770, 42.17.410.]
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.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Limitation on actions.


title: RCW 29B.60.060

text:
(1) A person who has reason to believe that a provision of this title is being or has been violated may bring a citizen's action in the name of the state, in accordance with the procedures of this section.
(2) A citizen's action may be brought and prosecuted only if the person first has filed a complaint with the commission and:
(a) The commission has not taken action authorized under RCW 29B.60.020(1) within 90 days of the complaint being filed with the commission, and the person who initially filed the complaint with the commission provided written notice to the attorney general in accordance with RCW 29B.60.020(5) and the attorney general has not commenced an action, or published a decision whether to commence action pursuant to RCW 29B.60.040(1)(b), within 45 days of receiving the notice;
(b) For matters referred to the attorney general within 90 days of the commission receiving the complaint, the attorney general has not commenced an action, or published a decision whether to commence an action pursuant to RCW 29B.60.040(1)(b), within 45 days of receiving referral from the commission; and
(c) The person who initially filed the complaint with the commission has provided notice of a citizen's action in accordance with subsection (3) of this section and the commission or the attorney general has not commenced action within the 10 days provided under subsection (3) of this section.
(3) To initiate the citizen's action, after meeting the requirements under subsection (2) (a) and (b) of this section, a person must notify the attorney general and the commission that the person will commence a citizen's action within 10 days if the commission does not take action authorized under RCW 29B.60.020(1), or the attorney general does not commence an action or publish a decision whether to commence an action pursuant to RCW 29B.60.040(1)(b). The attorney general and the commission must notify the other of its decision whether to commence an action.
(4) The citizen's action must be commenced within two years after the date when the alleged violation occurred and may not be commenced against a committee or incidental committee before the end of such period if the committee or incidental committee has received an acknowledgment of dissolution.
(5) If the person who brings the citizen's action prevails, the judgment awarded shall escheat to the state, but he or she shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the state for reasonable costs and reasonable attorneys' fees the person incurred. In the case of a citizen's action that is dismissed and that the court also finds was brought without reasonable cause, the court may order the person commencing the action to pay all trial costs and reasonable attorneys' fees incurred by the defendant.
[ 2024 c 164 s 495; 2019 c 428 s 40; 2018 c 304 s 16. Formerly RCW 42.17A.775.]
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.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.

catchline: Citizen's action.


title: RCW 29B.60.070

text:
In any action brought under this title, the court may award to the commission all reasonable costs of investigation and trial, including reasonable attorneys' fees to be fixed by the court. If the violation is found to have been intentional, the amount of the judgment, which shall for this purpose include the costs, may be trebled as punitive damages. If damages or trebled damages are awarded in such an action brought against a lobbyist, the judgment may be awarded against the lobbyist, and the lobbyist's employer or employers joined as defendants, jointly, severally, or both. If the defendant prevails, he or she shall be awarded all costs of trial and may be awarded reasonable attorneys' fees to be fixed by the court and paid by the state of Washington.
[ 2024 c 164 s 496; 2018 c 304 s 17. Formerly RCW 42.17A.780.]
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: Damages, costs, and attorneys' fees—Joint and several liability.


title: RCW 29B.60.080

text:
The public disclosure transparency account is created in the state treasury. All receipts from penalties collected pursuant to enforcement actions or settlements under this title, including any fees or costs, must be deposited into the account. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Moneys in the account may be used only for the implementation of chapter 304, Laws of 2018 and duties under this title, and may not be used to supplant general fund appropriations to the commission, except during the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium.
[ 2026 c 268 s 913; 2024 c 164 s 497; 2018 c 304 s 18. Formerly RCW 42.17A.785.]
Notes:
Effective date—2026 c 268: See note following RCW 28B.15.210.
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: Public disclosure transparency account.


title: RCW 3.02.010

text:
For purposes of this chapter, a court of limited jurisdiction is any court organized under Titles 3, 35, or 35A RCW.
[ 1980 c 162 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective dates, savings—1980 c 162: "Sections 1 through 4 of this 1980 act shall take effect on January 1, 1981, and shall apply to civil or criminal actions commenced on or after January 1, 1981. Sections 8 and 9 of this 1980 act shall take effect on May 1, 1980." [ 1980 c 162 s 13.]
Severability—1980 c 162: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1980 c 162 s 12.]

catchline: Court of limited jurisdiction defined.


title: RCW 3.02.020

text:
Review of the proceedings in a court of limited jurisdiction shall be by the superior court, the procedure for which may be established by supreme court rule.
[ 1980 c 162 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective dates, savings—Severability—1980 c 162: See notes following RCW 3.02.010.

catchline: Review of proceedings.


title: RCW 3.02.030

text:
The supreme court may, by court rule, establish a method of making a record of the proceedings of a court of limited jurisdiction for purposes of review.
[ 1980 c 162 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective dates, savings—Severability—1980 c 162: See notes following RCW 3.02.010.

catchline: Record of proceedings.


title: RCW 3.02.040

text:
The administrator for the courts may be consulted for advice on the selection, installation, and operation of any electronic recording equipment in courts of limited jurisdiction.
[ 2016 c 74 s 3; 1980 c 162 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective dates, savings—Severability—1980 c 162: See notes following RCW 3.02.010.

catchline: Electronic recording equipment.


title: RCW 3.02.045

text:
(1) Courts of limited jurisdiction may use collection agencies under chapter 19.16 RCW for purposes of collecting unpaid penalties on infractions, criminal fines, costs, assessments, civil judgments, or forfeitures that have been imposed by the courts. Courts of limited jurisdiction may enter into agreements with one or more attorneys or collection agencies for collection of outstanding penalties, fines, costs, assessments, and forfeitures. These agreements may specify the scope of work, remuneration for services, and other charges deemed appropriate. Such agreements may authorize collection agencies to retain all or any portion of the interest collected on these accounts.
(2) Courts of limited jurisdiction may use credit cards or debit cards for purposes of billing and collecting unpaid penalties, fines, costs, assessments, and forfeitures so imposed. Courts of limited jurisdiction may enter into agreements with one or more financial institutions for the purpose of the collection of penalties, fines, costs, assessments, and forfeitures. The agreements may specify conditions, remuneration for services, and other charges deemed appropriate.
(3) Servicing of delinquencies by collection agencies or by collecting attorneys in which the court retains control of its delinquencies shall not constitute assignment of debt.
(4) For purposes of this section, the term debt shall include penalties, fines, costs, assessments, or forfeitures imposed by the courts.
(5) The court may assess as court costs the moneys paid for remuneration for services or charges paid to collecting attorneys, to collection agencies, or, in the case of credit cards, to financial institutions.
[ 1995 c 291 s 1; 1995 c 38 s 1; 1994 c 301 s 1; 1987 c 266 s 1.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 1995 c 38 s 1 and by 1995 c 291 s 1, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section pursuant to RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Acts of municipal officers ratified and confirmed—1995 c 38: "Acts of municipal officers before July 23, 1995, that are consistent with its terms, including, but not limited to, acts consistent with chapter 301, Laws of 1994, are ratified and confirmed." [ 1995 c 38 s 12.]

catchline: Use of collection agencies and attorneys to collect unpaid amounts—Interest to agency authorized—Credit or debit card use—Assessment of amounts paid for collection as court costs.


title: RCW 3.02.050

text:
By January 1, 1982, the supreme court shall adopt rules providing for discovery in civil cases in the courts of limited jurisdiction.
[ 1981 c 331 s 8.]
Notes:
Court Congestion Reduction Act of 1981—Purpose—Severability—1981 c 331: See notes following RCW 2.32.070.

catchline: Discovery rules in civil cases.


title: RCW 3.02.060

text:
A judge pro tempore may be authorized under RCW 3.50.090 or 35.20.200 whenever a judge of the municipal court serves on a judicial commission, board, or committee established by the legislature or the chief justice of the supreme court. The judge pro tempore shall be compensated as specified in RCW 3.50.090 or 35.20.200.
[ 2000 c 165 s 2.]

catchline: Judge pro tempore appointments.


title: RCW 3.02.070

text:
The provisions of RCW 2.28.300 through 2.28.330 apply to courts of limited jurisdiction.
[ 2020 c 37 s 7.]
Notes:
Findings—Short title—2020 c 37: See notes following RCW 2.28.300.

catchline: Applicability of courts open to all act.


title: RCW 3.20.100

text:
If, previous to the commencement of any trial before a justice of the peace, the defendant, his or her attorney or agent, shall make and file with the justice an affidavit that the deponent believes that the defendant cannot have an impartial trial before such justice, it shall be the duty of the justice to forthwith transmit all papers and documents belonging to the case to the next nearest justice of the peace in the same county, who is not of kin to either party, sick, absent from the county, or interested in the result of the action, either as counsel or otherwise. The justice to whom such papers and documents are so transmitted shall proceed as if the suit had been instituted before him or her. Distance, as contemplated by this section, shall mean to be by the nearest traveled route. The costs of such change of venue shall abide the result of the suit. In precincts, and incorporated cities and towns where there are two or more justices of the peace, any one of them shall be considered the next nearest justice of the peace.
[ 2011 c 336 s 72; 1943 c 126 s 1; 1881 p 8 ss 2, 3; Code 1881 s 1938; 1867 p 88 s 2; Rem. Supp. 1943 s 1774.]

catchline: Change of venue—Affidavit of prejudice.


title: RCW 3.30.010

text:
As used in this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise:
"City" means an incorporated city or town.
"Department" means an administrative unit of a district court established for the orderly and efficient administration of business and may include, without being limited in scope thereby, a unit or units for determining traffic cases, violations of city ordinances, violations of state law, criminal cases, civil cases, or jury cases.
[ 2008 c 13 s 1; 1984 c 258 s 3; 1979 c 151 s 1; 1967 ex.s. c 42 s 1; 1961 c 299 s 1.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—1984 c 258: "(1) Sections 1 through 210, 511, 601 through 808, and 901 of this act shall take effect on July 1, 1984.
(2) Sections 501 through 510 and 512 through 524 of this act shall take effect on January 1, 1985.
(3) Sections 301 through 405 of this act shall take effect on July 1, 1985." [ 1984 c 258 s 902.]
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Severability—1984 c 258: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1984 c 258 s 903.]
Short title—1984 c 258: "This act may be known and cited as the court improvement act of 1984." [ 1984 c 258 s 1.]
Savings—1967 ex.s. c 42: "All matters relating to functions transferred under the provisions of this 1967 amendatory act which at the time of transfer have not been completed may be undertaken and completed by the director of the planning and community affairs agency, who is authorized, empowered, and directed to promulgate any and all orders, rules and regulations necessary to accomplish this purpose." [ 1967 ex.s. c 42 s 4.] The planning and community affairs agency has been redesignated the department of community, trade, and economic development. See RCW 43.330.020. The department of community, trade, and economic development has been renamed the department of commerce by 2009 c 565.
Effective date—1967 ex.s. c 42: "This 1967 amendatory act shall take effect on July 1, 1967." [ 1967 ex.s. c 42 s 5.]
Population determinations, office of financial management: Chapter 43.62 RCW.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 3.30.015

text:
All references to justices of the peace in other titles of the Revised Code of Washington shall be construed as meaning district judges. All references to justice courts or justice of the peace courts in other titles of the Revised Code of Washington shall be construed as meaning district courts.
[ 1984 c 258 s 90.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Construction of "justices of the peace," "justice courts," "justice of the peace courts."


title: RCW 3.30.020

text:
The provisions of chapters 3.30 through 3.74 RCW shall apply to each county with a population of two hundred ten thousand or more: PROVIDED, That any city having a population of more than four hundred thousand may by resolution of its legislative body elect to continue to operate a municipal court pursuant to the provisions of chapter 35.20 RCW, as if chapters 3.30 through 3.74 RCW had never been enacted: PROVIDED FURTHER, That if a city elects to continue its municipal court pursuant to this section, the number of district judges allocated to the county in RCW 3.34.010 shall be reduced by two and the number of full time district judges allocated by RCW 3.34.020 to the district in which the city is situated shall also be reduced by two. The provisions of chapters 3.30 through 3.74 RCW may be made applicable to any county with a population of less than two hundred ten thousand upon a majority vote of its county legislative authority.
[ 1991 c 363 s 4; 1987 c 202 s 110; 1961 c 299 s 2.]
Notes:
Purpose—Captions not law—1991 c 363: See notes following RCW 2.32.180.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Municipal courts in cities of over four hundred thousand: Chapter 35.20 RCW.

catchline: Application of chapters 3.30 through 3.74 RCW.


title: RCW 3.30.030

text:
The judges of each district court district shall be the justices of the peace of the district elected or appointed as provided in chapters 3.30 through 3.74 RCW. Such courts shall alternately be referred to as district courts and the judges thereof as district judges.
[ 1984 c 258 s 4; 1971 c 73 s 1; 1961 c 299 s 3.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Nomenclature for judges and courts.


title: RCW 3.30.040

text:
The district courts shall be open except on nonjudicial days. Sessions of the court shall be held at such places as shall be provided by the district court districting plan. The court shall sit as often as business requires in each city of the district which provides suitable courtroom facilities, to hear causes in which such city is the plaintiff.
[ 1984 c 258 s 5; 1961 c 299 s 4.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Sessions.


title: RCW 3.30.050

text:
Each court may be organized in a manner consistent with the departments created by the districting plan.
[ 1984 c 258 s 6; 1971 c 73 s 2; 1961 c 299 s 5.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Departments.


title: RCW 3.30.060

text:
Adjournments from day to day, or from time to time, are to be construed as recesses in the sessions, and shall not prevent the court from sitting at any time.
[ 1961 c 299 s 6.]

catchline: Adjournments.


title: RCW 3.30.070

text:
The clerk of each district court shall keep uniform records of each case filed and the proceedings had therein including an accounting for all funds received and disbursed. Financial reporting shall be in such form as may be prescribed by the state auditor. The form of other records may be prescribed by the supreme court.
[ 1995 c 301 s 30; 1971 c 73 s 3; 1961 c 299 s 7.]

catchline: Records.


title: RCW 3.30.080

text:
The supreme court may adopt rules of procedure for district courts. A district court may adopt local rules of procedure which are not inconsistent with state law or with the rules adopted by the supreme court. The rules for a county with a single district and multiple facilities may include rules to provide where cases shall be filed and where cases shall be heard. If the rules of the supreme court authorized under this section are adopted, all procedural laws in conflict with the rules shall be of no effect.
[ 1989 c 227 s 5; 1984 c 258 s 7; 1961 c 299 s 8.]
Notes:
Intent—1989 c 227: See note following RCW 3.38.070.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Rules.


title: RCW 3.30.090

text:
A violations bureau may be established by any city or district court having jurisdiction of traffic cases to assist in processing traffic cases. As designated by written order of the court having jurisdiction of traffic cases, specific offenses under city ordinance, county resolution, or state law may be processed by such bureau. Such bureau may be authorized to receive the posting of bail for such specified offenses, and, as authorized by the court order, to accept forfeiture of bail and payment of monetary penalties. The court order shall specify the amount of bail to be posted and shall also specify the circumstances or conditions which will require an appearance before the court. Such bureau, upon accepting the prescribed bail, shall issue a receipt to the alleged violator, which receipt shall bear a legend informing him or her of the legal consequences of bail forfeiture. The bureau shall transfer daily to the clerk of the proper department of the court all bail posted for offenses where forfeiture is not authorized by the court order, as well as copies of all receipts. All forfeitures or penalties paid to a violations bureau for violations of municipal ordinances shall be placed in the city general fund or such other fund as may be prescribed by ordinance. All forfeitures or penalties paid to a violations bureau for violations of state laws or county resolutions shall be remitted at least monthly to the county treasurer for deposit in the current expense fund. Employees of violations bureaus of a city shall be city employees under any applicable municipal civil service system.
[ 2011 c 336 s 73; 1979 ex.s. c 136 s 15; 1971 c 73 s 4; 1961 c 299 s 9.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1979 ex.s. c 136: See notes following RCW 46.63.010.

catchline: Violations bureau.


title: RCW 3.34.010

text:
The minimum number of district judges to be elected in each county shall be: Adams, two; Asotin, one; Benton, five; Chelan, two; Clallam, two; Clark, six; Columbia, one; Cowlitz, three; Douglas, one; Ferry, one; Franklin, one; Garfield, one; Grant, three; Grays Harbor, two; Island, one; Jefferson, one; King, twenty-three in 2009, twenty-five in 2010, and twenty-six in 2011; Kitsap, four; Kittitas, two; Klickitat, two; Lewis, two; Lincoln, one; Mason, one; Okanogan, two; Pacific, two; Pend Oreille, one; Pierce, eleven; San Juan, one; Skagit, three; Skamania, one; Snohomish, nine; Spokane, eight; Stevens, one; Thurston, three; Wahkiakum, one; Walla Walla, two; Whatcom, two; Whitman, one; Yakima, four. This number may be increased only as provided in RCW 3.34.020.
[ 2024 c 103 s 1; 2023 c 5 s 1; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 25 s 1; 2011 c 43 s 1. Prior: 2009 c 86 s 1; 2009 c 26 s 1; 2008 c 63 s 1; 2005 c 91 s 1; 2003 c 97 s 1; 2002 c 138 s 1; 1998 c 64 s 1; 1995 c 168 s 1; 1994 c 111 s 1; 1991 c 354 s 1; 1989 c 227 s 6; 1987 c 202 s 111; 1975 1st ex.s. c 153 s 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 14 s 1; 1971 ex.s. c 147 s 1; 1970 ex.s. c 23 s 1; 1969 ex.s. c 66 s 1; 1965 ex.s. c 110 s 5; 1961 c 299 s 10.]
Notes:
District judge position for Skagit county—2015 3rd sp.s. c 25: "The additional judicial position created by section 1 of this act in Skagit county becomes effective only if the county, through its duly constituted legislative authority, documents its approval of the additional position and its agreement that it will pay out of county funds, without reimbursement from the state, the expenses of the additional judicial position as provided by statute." [ 2015 3rd sp.s. c 25 s 2.]
District judge position for Clark county—2005 c 91: See note following RCW 3.34.025.
Effective date—2003 c 97: "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 7, 2003]." [ 2003 c 97 s 6.]
Effective date—1995 c 168: "This is 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 shall take effect immediately [May 1, 1995]." [ 1995 c 168 s 2.]
Intent—1989 c 227: See note following RCW 3.38.070.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.

catchline: District judges—Number for each county.


title: RCW 3.34.020

text:
(1) Any increase in the number of full and part-time district judges after January 1, 1992, shall be determined by the county legislative authority of the affected county after receiving a recommendation from the supreme court. The supreme court shall make its recommendations to the county legislative authority based on an objective workload analysis that takes into account available judicial resources and the caseload activity of each court.
(2) The administrator for the courts, under the supervision of the supreme court, may consult with the board of judicial administration and the district and municipal court judges' association in developing the procedures and methods of applying the objective workload analysis.
(3) For each recommended change from the number of full and part-time district judges in any county as of January 1, 1992, the administrator for the courts, under the supervision of the supreme court, shall complete a judicial impact note detailing any local or state cost associated with such recommended change.
(4) If the county legislative authority approves an increase in the base number of district judges in any county as of January 1, 1992, such increase in the base number of district judges and all related costs may be paid for by the county from moneys provided under RCW 82.14.310, and any such costs shall be deemed to be expended for criminal justice purposes as provided in *RCW 82.14.315, and such expenses shall not constitute a supplanting of existing funding.
(5)(a) A county legislative authority that desires to increase the number of full or part-time district judges from the base number on January 1, 1992, must first request the assistance of the supreme court. The administrator for the courts, under the supervision of the supreme court, shall conduct an objective workload analysis and make a recommendation of its findings to the county legislative authority for consideration as provided in this section. Changes in the number of district court judges may only be made by the county legislative authority in a year in which the quadrennial election for district court judges is not held.
(b) The legislative authority of any county may change a part-time district judge position to a full-time position.
[ 2024 c 103 s 2; 2003 c 97 s 2; 2002 c 83 s 1; 1997 c 41 s 3; 1991 c 313 s 2; 1987 c 202 s 112; 1984 c 258 s 8; 1982 c 29 s 1; 1973 1st ex.s. c 14 s 2; 1970 ex.s. c 23 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 66 s 7; 1961 c 299 s 11.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: RCW 82.14.315 expired July 1, 1991.
Effective date—2003 c 97: See note following RCW 3.34.010.
Intent—1987 c 202: See note following RCW 2.04.190.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: District judges—Number—Changes.


title: RCW 3.34.025

text:
Any additional district judge positions created under RCW 3.34.020 shall be effective only if the legislative authority of the affected county documents its approval of any additional positions and its agreement that it will pay out of county funds, without reimbursement from the state, the expenses of such additional judicial positions as provided by statute. The additional expenses include, but are not limited to, expenses incurred for court facilities. The legislative authority of any such county may, at its discretion, phase in any judicial positions over a period of time not to exceed two years from the effective date of the additional district judge positions.
[ 1991 c 313 s 3.]
Notes:
District judge position for Clark county—2005 c 91: "For the purposes of RCW 3.34.025, the district judge position for Clark county created in chapter 97, Laws of 2003, is hereby re-created as of July 24, 2005." [ 2005 c 91 s 2.]

catchline: District judge positions—Approval and agreement.


title: RCW 3.34.040

text:
A district judge serving a district having a population of forty thousand or more persons, and a district judge receiving a salary equal to the maximum salary set by the salary commission under RCW 3.58.020 for district judges shall be deemed full time judges and shall devote all of their time to the office and shall not engage in the practice of law. Other judges shall devote sufficient time to the office to properly fulfill the duties thereof and may engage in other occupations but shall maintain a separate office for private business and shall not use for private business the services of any clerk or secretary paid for by the county or office space or supplies furnished by the judicial district.
[ 1991 c 338 s 2; 1984 c 258 s 10; 1983 c 195 s 1; 1974 ex.s. c 95 s 2; 1971 ex.s. c 147 s 2; 1961 c 299 s 13.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: District judges—Full time—Other.


title: RCW 3.34.050

text:
At the general election in November 1962 and quadrennially thereafter, there shall be elected by the voters of each district court district the number of judges authorized for the district by the district court districting plan. Judges shall be elected for each district and electoral district, if any, by the qualified electors of the district in the same manner as judges of courts of record are elected, except as provided in chapter 29A.52 RCW. Not less than ten days before the time for filing declarations of candidacy for the election of judges for districts entitled to more than one judge, the county auditor shall designate each such office of district judge to be filled by a number, commencing with the number one and numbering the remaining offices consecutively. At the time of the filing of the declaration of candidacy, each candidate shall designate by number which one, and only one, of the numbered offices for which he or she is a candidate and the name of the candidate shall appear on the ballot for only the numbered office for which the candidate filed a declaration of candidacy.
[ 2015 c 53 s 1; 1998 c 19 s 2; 1989 c 227 s 3; 1984 c 258 s 11; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 120 s 8; 1961 c 299 s 14.]
Notes:
Intent—1989 c 227: See note following RCW 3.38.070.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 120: See note following RCW 29A.52.210.

catchline: District judges—Election.


title: RCW 3.34.060

text:
To be eligible to file a declaration of candidacy for and to serve as a district court judge, a person must:
(1) Be a registered voter of the district court district and electoral district, if any; and
(2) Be either:
(a) A lawyer admitted to practice law in the state of Washington; or
(b) In those districts having a population of less than five thousand persons, a person who has taken and passed by January 1, 2003, the qualifying examination for a lay candidate for judicial officer as provided by rule of the supreme court.
[ 2002 c 136 s 1; 1991 c 361 s 1; 1989 c 227 s 4; 1984 c 258 s 12; 1961 c 299 s 15.]
Notes:
Intent—1989 c 227: See note following RCW 3.38.070.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: District judges—Eligibility and qualifications.


title: RCW 3.34.070

text:
Every district judge shall hold office for a term of four years from and after the second Monday in January next succeeding his or her selection and continuing until a successor is elected and qualified.
[ 1984 c 258 s 13; 1961 c 299 s 16.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: District judges—Term of office.


title: RCW 3.34.080

text:
Each district judge, district judge pro tempore and district court commissioner shall, before entering upon the duties of office, take an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution and laws of the state of Washington, and to perform the duties of the office faithfully and impartially and to the best of his or her ability.
[ 1984 c 258 s 14; 1961 c 299 s 17.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.


title: RCW 3.34.090

text:
The county legislative authority shall provide for the bonding of each district judge, district judge pro tempore, district court commissioner, clerk of the district court, and court employee, at the expense of the county, in such amount as the county legislative authority shall prescribe, conditioned that each such person will pay over according to law all moneys which shall come into the person's custody in causes filed in the district court. Such bond shall not be less than the maximum amount of money liable to be under the control, at any one time, of each such person in the performance of his or her duties. Such bond may be a blanket bond. If the county obtains errors and omissions insurance covering district court personnel, the costs of such coverage shall be a reimbursable expense pursuant to RCW 3.62.050 as now or hereafter amended.
[ 1984 c 258 s 15; 1971 c 73 s 5; 1961 c 299 s 18.]
Notes:
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: Bonds—Insurance as reimbursable expense.


title: RCW 3.34.100

text:
(1) If a district judge dies, resigns, is convicted of a felony, ceases to reside in the district, fails to serve for any reason except temporary disability, or if his or her term of office is terminated in any other manner, the office shall be deemed vacant. The county legislative authority shall fill all vacancies by appointment and the judge thus appointed shall hold office until the next general election and until a successor is elected and qualified. However, if a vacancy in the office of district court judge occurs and the total number of district court judges remaining in the county is equal to or greater than the number of district court judges authorized in RCW 3.34.010 then the position shall remain vacant. District judges shall be granted sick leave in the same manner as other county employees. A district judge may receive when vacating office remuneration for unused accumulated leave and sick leave at a rate equal to one day's monetary compensation for each full day of accrued leave and one day's monetary compensation for each four full days of accrued sick leave, the total remuneration for leave and sick leave not to exceed the equivalent of thirty days' monetary compensation.
(2) During any vacancy that occurs pursuant to subsection (1) of this section in a single judge court, a presiding judge pro tempore who has been predesignated pursuant to court rule or appointed pursuant to RCW 2.56.040(2) may fulfill presiding judge duties, and the authority of the predesignated or appointed presiding judge pro tempore endures until the chief justice appoints someone else to fulfill the presiding judge duties pursuant to RCW 2.56.040(2)(b), or until a vacancy in the position is filled as provided by law, whichever occurs first.
[ 2022 c 74 s 6; 2003 c 97 s 3; 1992 c 76 s 1; 1984 c 258 s 16; 1961 c 299 s 19.]
Notes:
Effective date—2003 c 97: See note following RCW 3.34.010.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.

catchline: District judges—Vacancies—Remuneration.