title: RCW 29A.92.090

text:
(1)(a) After exhaustion of the time period in RCW 29A.92.080, any voter who resides in a political subdivision, organization whose roster of members and volunteers includes a voter who resides in the political subdivision, or tribe located at least in part in the political subdivision where a violation of this chapter is alleged may file an action in the superior court of the county in which the political subdivision is located. If the action is against a county, the action may be filed in the superior court of such county, or in the superior court of either of the two nearest judicial districts as determined pursuant to RCW 36.01.050(2). An action filed pursuant to this chapter does not need to be filed as a class action. The notice and exhaustion of the time period in RCW 29A.92.080 is not required to file an action under this section in circumstances described in (b) of this subsection.
(b) A party may file an action without providing notice and exhausting the time period in RCW 29A.92.080 if:
(i) The party is seeking preliminary relief with respect to an upcoming election in accordance with RCW 29A.92.100;
(ii) The party is seeking to intervene in or join an existing action; or
(iii) Following the party's submission of notice, the political subdivision enacted a remedy that would not remedy the violation identified in the notice.
(2) In an action under RCW 29A.92.030, a coalition of members of different protected classes may file an action jointly pursuant to this chapter if they demonstrate that the combined voting preferences of the multiple protected classes are polarized against the rest of the electorate. A coalition of members of different protected classes is not required to demonstrate that each individual racial, color, or language minority group which comprises the coalition is cohesive.
(3) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to relieve a party of the requirement to establish standing as provided in Washington case law when commencing an action under this title.
[ 2026 c 215 s 10; 2023 c 56 s 6; 2019 c 64 s 12; 2018 c 113 s 401.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 56: See note following RCW 29A.92.720.
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.

catchline: Action in superior court—Venue—Joint action.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 29A.92.100

text:
(1) In an action filed pursuant to this chapter, the trial court shall set a trial to be held no later than one year after the filing of a complaint, and shall set a discovery and motions calendar accordingly.
(2) For purposes of any applicable statute of limitations, a cause of action under this chapter arises every time there is an election for any members of the governing body of the political subdivision.
(3) The plaintiff's constitutional right to the secrecy of the plaintiff's vote is preserved and is not waived by the filing of an action pursuant to this chapter, and the filing is not subject to discovery or disclosure.
(4) In an action filed pursuant to this chapter in which a plaintiff seeks a temporary restraining order or a preliminary injunction with respect to an upcoming election, the court shall grant relief if it determines that:
(a) The plaintiff is more likely than not to succeed on the merits; and
(b) It is possible to implement an appropriate remedy that would resolve the alleged violation in the upcoming election.
(5) In seeking a temporary restraining order or a preliminary injunction, a plaintiff shall not be required to post a bond or any other security in order to secure such equitable relief.
(6) No notice may be submitted to any political subdivision pursuant to this chapter before July 19, 2018.
[ 2026 c 215 s 11; 2019 c 64 s 13; 2018 c 113 s 402.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Trial schedule—Statute of limitations—Secrecy of vote—Preliminary relief.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 29A.92.110

text:
(1) After finding a violation of this chapter or upon stipulation of the parties, the court may order appropriate remedies that are tailored to address the violation including, but not limited to, the imposition of a district-based election system or expansion of the number of elected county commissioners if authorized by RCW 29A.92.115, or modification of the political subdivision's election policies and practices. In tailoring a remedy, the court shall consider proposed remedies by the parties and may not give deference to a proposed remedy only because it is proposed by the political subdivision. The court may not approve a remedy that violates this chapter.
(2) If the court orders a district-based remedy, the court must approve proposed district boundaries prior to their implementation. The court must determine that the proposed district boundaries will not violate this chapter.
(3) Implementation of a district-based remedy is not precluded by the fact that members of a protected class do not constitute a numerical majority within a proposed district-based election district. If, in tailoring a remedy, the court orders the implementation of a district-based election district where the members of the protected class are not a numerical majority, the court shall do so in a manner that provides the protected class an equal opportunity to elect candidates of their choice. The court may also approve a district-based election system that provides the protected class the opportunity to join in a coalition of two or more protected classes to elect candidates of their choice if there is demonstrated political cohesion among the protected classes.
(4) In tailoring a remedy after a finding of a violation of RCW 29A.92.030 or upon stipulation of the parties:
(a) If the court's order providing a remedy or approving proposed districts, whichever is later, is issued during the period of time between the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November and on or before January 15th of the following year, the court shall order new elections, conducted pursuant to the remedy, to occur at the next succeeding general election. If a special filing period is required, filings for that office shall be reopened for a period of three business days, such three-day period to be fixed by the filing officer.
(b) If the court's order providing a remedy or approving proposed districts, whichever is later, is issued during the period of time between January 16th and on or before the first Monday of November, the next election will occur as scheduled and organized under the current electoral system, but the court shall order new elections to occur pursuant to the remedy at the general election the following calendar year.
(c) The remedy may provide for the political subdivision to hold elections for the members of its governing body at the same time as regularly scheduled elections for statewide or federal offices. All positions on the governing body must stand for election at the next election for the governing body, scheduled pursuant to this subsection (4). The governing body may subsequently choose to stagger the terms of its positions.
(5) Within thirty days of the conclusion of any action filed under RCW 29A.92.100, the political subdivision must publish on the subdivision's website, the outcome and summary of the action, as well as the legal costs incurred by the subdivision. If the political subdivision does not have its own website, then it may publish on the county website.
[ 2026 c 215 s 12; 2023 c 56 s 7; 2019 c 454 s 2; 2018 c 113 s 403.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 56: See note following RCW 29A.92.720.
Retroactive application—Effective date—2019 c 454: See notes following RCW 29A.92.050.

catchline: Court-ordered remedies—District-based remedies—New elections.


title: RCW 29A.92.115

text:
(1) A county may reasonably increase the number of elected commissioners to remedy a potential violation of RCW 29A.92.030 if the protected class or one of the protected classes subject to alleged vote dilution is Indian tribal status.
(2) After finding a violation of RCW 29A.92.030 or upon stipulation of the parties, the court may order a reasonable increase in the number of elected officials on a county commission if the defendant political subdivision is a county and the protected class or one of the protected classes subject to alleged vote dilution is Indian tribal status.
[ 2026 c 215 s 13; 2023 c 56 s 12.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 56: See note following RCW 29A.92.720.

catchline: Increase in number of elected county commissioners—Remedy for vote dilution concerning Indian tribal status.


title: RCW 29A.92.120

text:
(1) No action under this chapter may be brought by any person against a political subdivision that has adopted a remedy to its electoral system after an action is filed that is approved by a court pursuant to RCW 29A.92.070 or implemented a court-ordered remedy pursuant to RCW 29A.92.110 for four years after adoption of the remedy if the political subdivision does not enact a change to or deviation from the remedy during this four-year period that would otherwise give rise to an action under this chapter. This subsection applies to violations or potential violations under RCW 29A.92.021 only if a subsequent action is based on the same election policy or practice for which the court has concluded that the political subdivision's remedy complies with this chapter.
(2) No action under this chapter may be brought by any person against a political subdivision that has adopted a remedy to its electoral system in the previous decade before June 7, 2018, as a result of a claim under the federal voting rights act until after the political subdivision completes redistricting pursuant to RCW 29A.76.010 for the 2020 decennial census.
[ 2026 c 215 s 14; 2019 c 64 s 14; 2018 c 113 s 404.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.

catchline: Safe harbor—Limitation of actions.


title: RCW 29A.92.130

text:
(1) In any action to enforce this chapter, the court may allow the prevailing plaintiff or plaintiffs, other than the state or political subdivision thereof, reasonable attorneys' fees, all nonattorney fee costs as defined by RCW 4.84.010, and all reasonable expert witness fees, including all such reasonable fees and costs incurred before filing the action.
(2)(a) A prevailing plaintiff does not need to achieve relief or favorable judgment if the plaintiff demonstrates that they succeeded in altering the political subdivision's behavior to correct a claimed harm.
(b) For purposes of this section, "altering the political subdivision's behavior" includes, but is not limited to, adopting a new method of electing a governing body, modifying district boundaries, or modifying an election policy or practice.
(3) Prevailing defendants may recover an award of fees or costs pursuant to RCW 4.84.185.
[ 2026 c 215 s 15; 2023 c 56 s 10; 2018 c 113 s 405.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 56: See note following RCW 29A.92.720.

catchline: Award of fees.


title: RCW 29A.92.700

text:
The provisions of RCW 29A.92.005 through 29A.92.030, 29A.92.060 through 29A.92.130, 29A.92.021, and 29A.92.900 are not applicable to cities and towns with populations under one thousand or to school districts with K-12 full-time equivalent enrollments of less than two hundred fifty.
[ 2026 c 215 s 16; 2018 c 113 s 501.]

catchline: Not applicable to certain political subdivisions.


title: RCW 29A.92.710

text:
This chapter supersedes other state laws and local ordinances to the extent that those state laws or ordinances would otherwise restrict a jurisdiction's ability to comply with this chapter.
[ 2019 c 64 s 15; 2018 c 113 s 503.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.

catchline: Other laws superseded.


title: RCW 29A.92.720

text:
In further recognition of the protections for the right to vote provided by the Constitution of the state of Washington, statutes, rules and regulations, and local laws, town charters, and ordinances related to the right to vote shall be construed liberally in favor of:
(1) Protecting the right to cast an effective ballot;
(2) Ensuring that eligible voters are not impaired in registering to vote or voting including having their votes counted; and
(3) Ensuring that voters of race, color, and language minority groups have equitable access to fully participate in the electoral process in registering to vote and voting free from improper dilution or abridgement of voting power.
[ 2023 c 56 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2023 c 56: "This act takes effect January 1, 2024." [ 2023 c 56 s 14.]

catchline: Construction of laws concerning right to vote.


title: RCW 29A.92.900

text:
This chapter may be known and cited as the Washington voting rights act of 2018.
[ 2019 c 64 s 16; 2018 c 113 s 101.]
Notes:
Explanatory statement—2019 c 64: See note following RCW 1.20.110.

catchline: Short title.


title: RCW 29A.93.010

text:
(1) "Covered jurisdiction" means:
(a) A political subdivision which, within the previous 25 years, has become subject to a court order, government enforcement action, court-approved consent decree, or a settlement in which the political subdivision conceded liability, based upon a violation of chapter 29A.92 RCW, the federal voting rights act, the 15th amendment to the United States Constitution involving discrimination against members of a protected class, or any voting-related violation of the 14th amendment to the United States Constitution or of the Washington Constitution involving discrimination against members of a protected class; or
(b) Any political subdivision that, during the previous 25 years, was found to have enacted or implemented a covered policy without obtaining preclearance for such covered policy while designated as a covered jurisdiction pursuant to this section.
(2)(a) "Covered policy" means:
(i) Any change to the method of election of members of a governing body, including the removal of seats, the addition of seats elected at large, or the conversion of one or more seats elected from a single-member district to one or more at-large seats or seats from a multimember district;
(ii) Any change, or series of changes within a 12-month period, to the boundaries of the covered jurisdiction that reduces by more than five percentage points the proportion of the jurisdiction's citizen voting age population that is composed of members of any protected class that is a basis for the political subdivision's designation as a covered jurisdiction;
(iii) Any change to the boundaries of election districts or wards in the covered jurisdiction;
(iv) Any change that restricts the ability of any person to provide interpreter services to voters in any language other than English or which limits or impairs the creation or distribution of voting materials in any language other than English;
(v) Any change to the covered jurisdiction's plan of government, including a change to or in the framing of a jurisdiction's charter;
(vi) The method of election or district plans if, following each decennial census, a covered jurisdiction maintains an at-large method of election or a covered jurisdiction that implements a district-based election system makes no revisions to its districting plans; or
(vii) A change that may have the effect of denying, abridging, or diluting the right to vote on account of race, color, or membership in a language minority group.
(b) "Covered policy" is not limited to actions taken independently by the governing body of a political subdivision, but also includes any changes as a result of ballot initiatives approved by voters.
(3) "Government enforcement action" includes a denial of administrative or judicial preclearance by the state or federal government, a final judgment or adjudication, or a similar formal action including but not limited to orders or final determinations from administrative adjudications.
(4) "Political subdivision" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 29A.92.010.
(5) "Protected class" has the same meaning as defined in RCW 29A.92.010.
[ 2026 c 211 s 1.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 29A.93.020

text:
(1)(a) Prior to adopting or administering a covered policy as defined in RCW 29A.93.010, the governing body of a covered jurisdiction shall submit such covered policy to the attorney general for issuance of a certification of no objection to the proposed covered policy.
(b) The attorney general shall issue a certification of no objection, only if the proposed covered policy:
(i) Will not diminish the ability of the protected class or classes that are the basis for the political subdivision's designation as a covered jurisdiction to participate in the political process or to elect their preferred candidates to office; and
(ii) Does not violate chapter 29A.92 RCW, the federal voting rights act, 52 U.S.C. Sec. 10301 et seq., or other provisions of state or federal law.
(2) No covered policy is effective until the attorney general has issued a certification of no objection.
(3)(a) A certification of no objection may be deemed to have been issued if:
(i) After submitting a covered policy for a certification with the attorney general, the attorney general does not issue an objection within 60 days of the governing body's submission of the covered policy, except when the timeline is extended pursuant to (b) of this subsection; or
(ii) The attorney general affirmatively indicates that no such objection will be made, upon a showing of good cause to facilitate an expedited approval within 60 days of the governing body's submission.
(b) The attorney general may, no more than twice, extend the number of days to issue an objection under (a) of this subsection by 90 days for each extension.
(c) If the attorney general affirmatively indicates that no objection will be made within the 60-day period following the receipt of the governing body's submission, the attorney general may reserve the right to reexamine the submission if the attorney general discovers additional information during the remainder of the 60-day period that would otherwise require an objection in accordance with this section. Upon reexamination, the attorney general may extend the number of days to issue an objection in accordance with (b) of this subsection.
(d) An affirmative indication by the attorney general that no objection will be made or the attorney general's failure to object does not bar a subsequent action to enjoin enforcement of the covered policy.
(4) The attorney general may institute an action in superior court of the county in which the relevant political subdivision is located or in the Thurston county superior court to enjoin a covered jurisdiction from implementing a covered policy and to compel the governing body of the covered jurisdiction to comply with the requirements under subsection (1) of this section.
(5) If the attorney general objects to a covered policy submitted by a covered jurisdiction, the covered jurisdiction may appeal the objection in superior court of the county in which the relevant political subdivision is located or in the Thurston county superior court. No other parties may file an action to appeal an objection by the attorney general to a covered policy nor intervene in any such action brought by the covered jurisdiction. Due to the frequency and urgency of elections, actions brought pursuant to this section shall be subject to expedited proceedings.
(6) In any action under this section, the court has discretion to stay the implementation of the covered policy until it issues its final order or determination. An action under this section does not preclude, bar, or limit any other actions that may be brought regarding the covered policy in any way, including actions brought under other sections of chapter 29A.92 RCW.
[ 2026 c 211 s 2.]

catchline: Adoption or administration of covered policies—Review by attorney general—Judicial proceedings.


title: RCW 29A.93.030

text:
(1) An action may be filed by any aggrieved person in any of the following circumstances:
(a) The attorney general has issued a certification of no objection to a covered policy in violation of RCW 29A.93.020; or
(b) To compel the governing body of the covered jurisdiction to seek issuance of a certification of no objection from the attorney general prior to adopting or implementing the covered policy.
(2) An action to appeal the attorney general's certificate of no objection must be filed in superior court of the county in which the relevant political subdivision is located or in the Thurston county superior court.
(3) In any claim under this section, the court has discretion to stay the implementation of the covered policy until it issues its final order or determination. A claim under this subdivision does not preclude, bar, or limit any other claims that may be brought regarding the covered policy in any way, including claims brought under other sections of chapter 29A.92 RCW. Review of the attorney general's determination under subsection (1)(a) of this section is de novo.
(4) For purposes of this section, an "aggrieved person" may also include any organization whose:
(a) Membership includes individuals aggrieved by a violation of this section; or
(b) Mission would be frustrated by a violation of this section, including but not limited to an entity who would expend or divert resources to fulfill its mission as a result of such violation.
(5) An organization described under subsection (4) of this section may not be compelled to disclose the identity of any specific member to pursue a claim on behalf of its members.
[ 2026 c 211 s 3.]

catchline: Judicial review.


title: RCW 29A.93.040

text:
(1) No later than July 1st of each even-numbered year, the attorney general shall, in consultation with the office of financial management and other relevant agencies, designate those political subdivisions which qualify as covered jurisdictions pursuant to RCW 29A.93.010 based on the best available data from the United States census bureau, the most recent American community survey, or other data of comparable quality collected by a federal, state, or local agency. The attorney general shall provide written notice to the covered jurisdiction of the designation. A determination made pursuant to this subsection is effective on the date that the written notice is sent.
(2) The office of the attorney general shall maintain a publicly accessible website containing the following information:
(a) A list of all covered jurisdictions, to be updated biannually;
(b) All submissions for a certificate of no objection certifying that the covered policy meets the standard in RCW 29A.93.020, including any supporting documents submitted by the covered entity; and
(c) The status and disposition of each submission under (b) of this subsection.
[ 2026 c 211 s 4.]

catchline: Designation of covered jurisdictions—Information provided by attorney general.


title: RCW 29A.93.050

text:
Once the attorney general issues a certificate of no objection pursuant to RCW 29A.93.020, or once the attorney general's certificate of no objection of a covered policy is upheld by a court in the case of an appeal under RCW 29A.93.030(1)(a), whichever is later, an action against the political subdivision based on the same covered policy may not be brought within four years of the approval of that covered policy so long as the political subdivision does not enact a change to or deviation from the approved covered policy during the four-year period that would otherwise give rise to an action under this chapter or chapter 29A.92 RCW. This section does not preclude an appeal under RCW 29A.93.030(1)(a) or an action by the attorney general under RCW 29A.93.020(3)(d).
[ 2026 c 211 s 5.]


title: RCW 29A.96.010

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
"Federally recognized Indian tribe" means any federally recognized Indian tribe whose traditional lands and territories included parts of Washington as described in RCW 43.376.010.
[ 2026 c 214 s 4.]

catchline: Definition.


title: RCW 29A.96.020

text:
(1) To the extent practicable, each county auditor shall schedule the following meetings with each federally recognized Indian tribe located in whole or in part within the county:
(a) Not later than August 1st of each odd-numbered year, a meeting to discuss the details for the next regularly scheduled election cycle. Such a meeting may address, without limitation:
(i) The establishment and operation of voting centers or ballot drop boxes within an Indian reservation and the size requirements for any such voting centers or ballot drop boxes;
(ii) The dates and times of the upcoming elections for which voting centers or ballot drop boxes may be established;
(iii) The deadlines relating to the next regularly scheduled election cycle for the federally recognized Indian tribe to submit a request for the establishment of voting centers or ballot drop boxes;
(iv) Responsibilities for the recruitment of election officers; and
(v) Any other information relating to the establishment and operation of voting centers and ballot drop boxes;
(b) Not later than September 1st of each odd-numbered year, a meeting to confirm any details relating to the establishment and operation of voting centers or ballot drop boxes. Such a meeting may address, without limitation:
(i) Whether the federally recognized Indian tribe will request or has requested to establish any voting centers or ballot drop boxes within an Indian reservation and the size requirements for any such voting centers and ballot drop boxes;
(ii) The days and hours of any voting center or ballot drop box established within an Indian reservation;
(iii) Election officers for any voting center or ballot drop box established within an Indian reservation; and
(iv) The deadlines relating to the next regularly scheduled election cycle for the federally recognized Indian tribe to submit a request for the establishment of voting centers or ballot drop boxes; and
(c) A meeting on an ongoing basis during the year of an election if a federally recognized Indian tribe elects to establish any voting centers or ballot drop boxes within an Indian reservation.
(2) If a county auditor:
(a) Is unable to make contact with a federally recognized Indian tribe to carry out the requirements of subsection (1) of this section, the county auditor shall contact the secretary of state to facilitate contact; or
(b) Has not contacted a federally recognized Indian tribe, a representative of the federally recognized Indian tribe may contact the secretary of state to facilitate contact.
(3) The tribal liaison designated by the secretary of state may assist the county auditor or a federally recognized Indian tribe to facilitate any contact required pursuant to this section.
[ 2026 c 214 s 1.]

catchline: Meetings between county auditors and tribes.


title: RCW 29A.96.030

text:
Each biennium, the secretary of state must meet with the federally recognized Indian tribes of the state to provide a forum for discussing and addressing barriers to voting, including but not limited to:
(1) Education and outreach tools for tribal voters;
(2) The use of tribal identification card data for online voter registration;
(3) Assistance with tribal-led voter registration drives;
(4) Establishment of ballot mailing sites on tribal land for voters with nontraditional mailing addresses;
(5) Installation of ballot drop boxes on or near tribal lands;
(6) Providing students with information about voting and opportunities to register or preregister to vote;
(7) Personalized voter registration links, emails with election date reminders, and meetings or presentations on various elections topics; and
(8) Any other policy issues or tribal concerns.
[ 2026 c 214 s 2.]

catchline: Meetings between secretary of state and tribes.


title: RCW 29A.96.800

text:
(1) The secretary of state may, within existing resources, study the feasibility of employing an electronic ballot portal that enables covered voters to return a voted ballot.
(2) Any electronic ballot portal design being studied must:
(a) Be secure against electronic monitoring and incursion or interference;
(b) Provide the maximum level of voter secrecy and privacy available;
(c) Ensure that only a single vote is cast by any voter authorized to use the electronic ballot portal to return a voted ballot;
(d) Have the capability to produce an auditable paper record at the receiving end; and
(e) Authorize only covered voters to return a voted ballot.
(3) In studying electronic ballot portal designs, the secretary of state may rely on the results of independent design, engineering, and performance evaluations as well as contract or consult with experts such as county auditors, representatives with expertise in electronic voting methods, and cybersecurity experts.
(4) Nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the use of an electronic ballot portal to return a voted ballot in this state.
(5) If the secretary of state conducts a feasibility study in accordance with this section, the secretary of state shall, within 180 days of completing the study and in compliance with RCW 43.01.036, provide the appropriate committees of the legislature with a report of the results of its feasibility study and any recommendations on whether the state should employ an electronic ballot portal for use in elections in this state.
(6) For purposes of this section, "covered voter" means:
(a) Service voters as defined in RCW 29A.04.163;
(b) Overseas voters as defined in RCW 29A.04.109;
(c) Disabled voters as defined in RCW 29A.04.037; and
(d) Any elector who is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe and resides on an Indian reservation.
(7) This section expires 30 days after the secretary of state submits its report to the legislature described in subsection (5) of this section. The secretary of state must provide written notice of the expiration date of this section to affected parties, the chief clerk of the house of representatives, the secretary of the senate, the office of the code reviser, and others as deemed appropriate by the secretary of state.
[ 2026 c 214 s 3.]

catchline: Study on feasibility of electronic ballot portal. (Contingent expiration date.)


title: RCW 29B.05.010

text:
It is hereby declared by the sovereign people to be the public policy of the state of Washington:
(1) That political campaign and lobbying contributions and expenditures be fully disclosed to the public and that secrecy is to be avoided.
(2) That the people have the right to expect from their elected representatives at all levels of government the utmost of integrity, honesty, and fairness in their dealings.
(3) That the people shall be assured that the private financial dealings of their public officials, and of candidates for those offices, present no conflict of interest between the public trust and private interest.
(4) That our representative form of government is founded on a belief that those entrusted with the offices of government have nothing to fear from full public disclosure of their financial and business holdings, provided those officials deal honestly and fairly with the people.
(5) That public confidence in government at all levels is essential and must be promoted by all possible means.
(6) That public confidence in government at all levels can best be sustained by assuring the people of the impartiality and honesty of the officials in all public transactions and decisions.
(7) That the concept of attempting to increase financial participation of individual contributors in political campaigns is encouraged by the passage of the Revenue Act of 1971 by the Congress of the United States, and in consequence thereof, it is desirable to have implementing legislation at the state level.
(8) That the concepts of disclosure and limitation of election campaign financing are established by the passage of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 by the Congress of the United States, and in consequence thereof it is desirable to have implementing legislation at the state level.
(9) That small contributions by individual contributors are to be encouraged, and that not requiring the reporting of small contributions may tend to encourage such contributions.
(10) That the public's right to know of the financing of political campaigns and lobbying and the financial affairs of elected officials and candidates far outweighs any right that these matters remain secret and private.
(11) That, mindful of the right of individuals to privacy and of the desirability of the efficient administration of government, full access to information concerning the conduct of government on every level must be assured as a fundamental and necessary precondition to the sound governance of a free society.
The provisions of this title shall be liberally construed to promote complete disclosure of all information respecting the financing of political campaigns and lobbying, and the financial affairs of elected officials and candidates, and full access to public records so as to assure continuing public confidence of fairness of elections and governmental processes, and so as to assure that the public interest will be fully protected. In promoting such complete disclosure, however, this title shall be enforced so as to ensure that the information disclosed will not be misused for arbitrary and capricious purposes and to ensure that all persons reporting under this title will be protected from harassment and unfounded allegations based on information they have freely disclosed.
[ 2024 c 164 s 401; 2019 c 428 s 2; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 1; 1973 c 1 s 1 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.001, 42.17.010.]
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—1973 c 1: "The effective date of this act shall be January 1, 1973." [ 1973 c 1 s 49 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.900, 42.17.900.]
Construction—1973 c 1: "The provisions of this act are to be liberally construed to effectuate the policies and purposes of this act. In the event of conflict between the provisions of this act and any other act, the provisions of this act shall govern." [ 1973 c 1 s 47 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.904, 42.17.920.]

catchline: Declaration of policy.


title: RCW 29B.05.020

text:
Elections of conservation district supervisors held pursuant to chapter 89.08 RCW shall not be considered general or special elections for purposes of the campaign disclosure and personal financial affairs reporting requirements of this title. Elected conservation district supervisors are not considered elected officials for purposes of the annual personal financial affairs reporting requirement of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 402; 2002 c 43 s 4. Formerly RCW 42.17A.010, 42.17.035.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Intent—Effective date—2002 c 43: See notes following RCW 29A.04.330.

catchline: Conservation district exception.


title: RCW 29B.05.030

text:
All statements and reports filed under this title shall be public records of the agency where they are filed, and shall be available for public inspection and copying during normal business hours at the expense of the person requesting copies, provided that the charge for such copies shall not exceed actual cost to the agency.
[ 2024 c 164 s 403; 1973 c 1 s 44 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.020, 42.17.440.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Statements and reports public records.


title: RCW 29B.10.010

text:
Words and phrases as defined in this chapter, wherever used in this title, shall have the meaning as in this chapter ascribed to them, unless where used the context thereof shall clearly indicate to the contrary or unless otherwise defined in the chapter of which they are a part.
[ 2024 c 164 s 201.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—2024 c 164: "This act is intended to make technical amendments to certain codified statutes that involve campaign disclosure and contribution. Any statutory changes made by this act should be interpreted as technical in nature and not interpreted to have any substantive, policy implications." [ 2024 c 164 s 101.]
Rules remain valid—2024 c 164: "A rule adopted under authority provided in chapter 42.17A RCW remains valid and is not affected by the recodification in this act." [ 2024 c 164 s 102.]
Effective date—2024 c 164: "This act takes effect January 1, 2026." [ 2024 c 164 s 536.]

catchline: Scope of definitions.


title: RCW 29B.10.020

text:
"Actual malice" means to act with knowledge of falsity or with reckless disregard as to truth or falsity.
[ 2024 c 164 s 202.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Actual malice.


title: RCW 29B.10.030

text:
"Agency" includes all state agencies and all local agencies. "State agency" includes every state office, department, division, bureau, board, commission, or other state agency. "Local agency" includes every county, city, town, municipal corporation, quasi-municipal corporation, or special purpose district, or any office, department, division, bureau, board, commission, or agency thereof, or other local public agency. "Agency" does not include a comprehensive cancer center participating in a collaborative arrangement as defined in RCW 28B.10.930 that is operated in conformance with RCW 28B.10.930.
[ 2024 c 164 s 203.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Agency.


title: RCW 29B.10.040

text:
"Authorized committee" means the political committee authorized by a candidate, or by the public official against whom recall charges have been filed, to accept contributions or make expenditures on behalf of the candidate or public official.
[ 2024 c 164 s 204.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Authorized committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.050

text:
"Ballot proposition" means any "measure" as defined by RCW 29A.04.091, or any initiative, recall, or referendum proposition proposed to be submitted to the voters of the state or any municipal corporation, political subdivision, or other voting constituency from and after the time when the proposition has been initially filed with the appropriate election officer of that constituency before its circulation for signatures.
[ 2024 c 164 s 205.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Ballot proposition.


title: RCW 29B.10.060

text:
"Benefit" means a commercial, proprietary, financial, economic, or monetary advantage, or the avoidance of a commercial, proprietary, financial, economic, or monetary disadvantage.
[ 2024 c 164 s 206.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Benefit.


title: RCW 29B.10.070

text:
"Bona fide political party" means:
(1) An organization that has been recognized as a minor political party by the secretary of state;
(2) The governing body of the state organization of a major political party, as defined in RCW 29A.04.086, that is the body authorized by the charter or bylaws of the party to exercise authority on behalf of the state party; or
(3) The county central committee or legislative district committee of a major political party. There may be only one legislative district committee for each party in each legislative district.
[ 2024 c 164 s 207.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Bona fide political party.


title: RCW 29B.10.080

text:
"Books of account" means:
(1) In the case of a campaign or political committee, a ledger or similar listing of contributions, expenditures, and debts, such as a campaign or committee is required to file regularly with the commission, current as of the most recent business day; or
(2) In the case of a commercial advertiser, details of political advertising or electioneering communications provided by the advertiser, including the names and addresses of persons from whom it accepted political advertising or electioneering communications, the exact nature and extent of the services rendered, and the total cost and the manner of payment for the services.
[ 2024 c 164 s 208.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Books of account.


title: RCW 29B.10.090

text:
"Candidate" means any individual who seeks nomination for election or election to public office. An individual seeks nomination or election when the individual first:
(1) Receives contributions or makes expenditures or reserves space or facilities with intent to promote the individual's candidacy for office;
(2) Announces publicly or files for office;
(3) Purchases commercial advertising space or broadcast time to promote the individual's candidacy; or
(4) Gives consent to another person to take on behalf of the individual any of the actions in subsection (1) or (3) of this section.
[ 2024 c 164 s 209.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Candidate.


title: RCW 29B.10.100

text:
"Caucus political committee" means a political committee organized and maintained by the members of a major political party in the state senate or state house of representatives.
[ 2024 c 164 s 210.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Caucus political committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.110

text:
"Commercial advertiser" means any person that sells the service of communicating messages or producing material for broadcast or distribution to the general public or segments of the general public whether through brochures, fliers, newspapers, magazines, television, radio, billboards, direct mail advertising, printing, paid internet or digital communications, or any other means of mass communication used for the purpose of appealing, directly or indirectly, for votes or for financial or other support in any election campaign.
[ 2024 c 164 s 211.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Commercial advertiser.


title: RCW 29B.10.120

text:
"Commission" means the agency established under RCW 29B.20.010.
[ 2024 c 164 s 212.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Commission.


title: RCW 29B.10.130

text:
"Committee[,]" unless the context indicates otherwise, includes a political committee such as a candidate, ballot proposition, recall, political, or continuing political committee.
[ 2024 c 164 s 213.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.140

text:
"Compensation[,]" unless the context requires a narrower meaning, includes payment in any form for real or personal property or services of any kind. For the purpose of compliance with RCW 29B.55.030, "compensation" does not include per diem allowances or other payments made by a governmental entity to reimburse a public official for expenses incurred while the official is engaged in the official business of the governmental entity.
[ 2024 c 164 s 214.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Compensation.


title: RCW 29B.10.150

text:
"Continuing political committee" means a political committee that is an organization of continuing existence not limited to participation in any particular election campaign or election cycle.
[ 2024 c 164 s 215.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Continuing political committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.160

text:
(1) "Contribution" includes:
(a) A loan, gift, deposit, subscription, forgiveness of indebtedness, donation, advance, pledge, payment, transfer of funds, or anything of value, including personal and professional services for less than full consideration;
(b) An expenditure made by a person in cooperation, consultation, or concert with, or at the request or suggestion of, a candidate, a political or incidental committee, the person or persons named on the candidate's or committee's registration form who direct expenditures on behalf of the candidate or committee, or their agents;
(c) The financing by a person of the dissemination, distribution, or republication, in whole or in part, of broadcast, written, graphic, digital, or other form of political advertising or electioneering communication prepared by a candidate, a political or incidental committee, or its authorized agent;
(d) Sums paid for tickets to fund-raising events such as dinners and parties, except for the actual cost of the consumables furnished at the event.
(2) "Contribution" does not include:
(a) Accrued interest on money deposited in a political or incidental committee's account;
(b) Ordinary home hospitality;
(c) A contribution received by a candidate or political or incidental committee that is returned to the contributor within 10 business days of the date on which it is received by the candidate or political or incidental committee;
(d) A news item, feature, commentary, or editorial in a regularly scheduled news medium that is of interest to the public, that is in a news medium controlled by a person whose business is that news medium, and that is not controlled by a candidate or a political or incidental committee;
(e) An internal political communication primarily limited to the members of or contributors to a political party organization or political or incidental committee, or to the officers, management staff, or stockholders of a corporation or similar enterprise, or to the members of a labor organization or other membership organization;
(f) The rendering of personal services of the sort commonly performed by volunteer campaign workers, or incidental expenses personally incurred by volunteer campaign workers not in excess of $50 personally paid for by the worker. "Volunteer services," for the purposes of this section, means services or labor for which the individual is not compensated by any person;
(g) Messages in the form of reader boards, banners, or yard or window signs displayed on a person's own property or property occupied by a person. However, a facility used for such political advertising for which a rental charge is normally made must be reported as an in-kind contribution and counts toward any applicable contribution limit of the person providing the facility;
(h) Legal or accounting services rendered to or on behalf of:
(i) A political party or caucus political committee if the person paying for the services is the regular employer of the person rendering such services; or
(ii) A candidate or an authorized committee if the person paying for the services is the regular employer of the individual rendering the services and if the services are solely for the purpose of ensuring compliance with state election or public disclosure laws; or
(i) The performance of ministerial functions by a person on behalf of two or more candidates or political or incidental committees either as volunteer services defined in (f) of this subsection or for payment by the candidate or political or incidental committee for whom the services are performed as long as:
(i) The person performs solely ministerial functions;
(ii) A person who is paid by two or more candidates or political or incidental committees is identified by the candidates and political committees on whose behalf services are performed as part of their respective statements of organization under RCW 29B.25.020; and
(iii) The person does not disclose, except as required by law, any information regarding a candidate's or committee's plans, projects, activities, or needs, or regarding a candidate's or committee's contributions or expenditures that is not already publicly available from campaign reports filed with the commission, or otherwise engage in activity that constitutes a contribution under subsection (1)(b) of this section.
A person who performs ministerial functions under this subsection (2)(i) is not considered an agent of the candidate or committee as long as the person has no authority to authorize expenditures or make decisions on behalf of the candidate or committee.
(3) Contributions other than money or its equivalent are deemed to have a monetary value equivalent to the fair market value of the contribution. Services or property or rights furnished at less than their fair market value for the purpose of assisting any candidate or political committee are deemed a contribution. Such a contribution must be reported as an in-kind contribution at its fair market value and counts towards any applicable contribution limit of the provider.
[ 2024 c 164 s 216.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Contribution.


title: RCW 29B.10.170

text:
"Depository" means a bank, mutual savings bank, savings and loan association, or credit union doing business in this state.
[ 2024 c 164 s 217.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Depository.


title: RCW 29B.10.180

text:
"Elected official" means any person elected at a general or special election to any public office, and any person appointed to fill a vacancy in any such office.
[ 2024 c 164 s 218.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Elected official.


title: RCW 29B.10.190

text:
"Election" includes any primary, general, or special election for public office and any election in which a ballot proposition is submitted to the voters. An election in which the qualifications for voting include other than those requirements set forth in Article VI, section 1 (Amendment 63) of the Constitution of the state of Washington shall not be considered an election for purposes of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 219.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Election.


title: RCW 29B.10.200

text:
"Election campaign" means any campaign in support of or in opposition to a candidate for election to public office and any campaign in support of, or in opposition to, a ballot proposition.
[ 2024 c 164 s 220.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Election campaign.


title: RCW 29B.10.210

text:
"Election cycle" means the period beginning on the first day of January after the date of the last previous general election for the office that the candidate seeks and ending on December 31st after the next election for the office. In the case of a special election to fill a vacancy in an office, "election cycle" means the period beginning on the day the vacancy occurs and ending on December 31st after the special election.
[ 2024 c 164 s 221.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Election cycle.


title: RCW 29B.10.220

text:
(1) "Electioneering communication" means any broadcast, cable, or satellite television, radio transmission, digital communication, United States postal service mailing, billboard, newspaper, or periodical that:
(a) Clearly identifies a candidate for a state, local, or judicial office either by specifically naming the candidate, or identifying the candidate without using the candidate's name;
(b) Is broadcast, transmitted electronically or by other means, mailed, erected, distributed, or otherwise published within 60 days before any election for that office in the jurisdiction in which the candidate is seeking election; and
(c) Either alone, or in combination with one or more communications identifying the candidate by the same sponsor during the 60 days before an election, has a fair market value or cost of $1,000 or more.
(2) "Electioneering communication" does not include:
(a) Usual and customary advertising of a business owned by a candidate, even if the candidate is mentioned in the advertising when the candidate has been regularly mentioned in that advertising appearing at least 12 months preceding the candidate becoming a candidate;
(b) Advertising for candidate debates or forums when the advertising is paid for by or on behalf of the debate or forum sponsor, so long as two or more candidates for the same position have been invited to participate in the debate or forum;
(c) A news item, feature, commentary, or editorial in a regularly scheduled news medium that is:
(i) Of interest to the public;
(ii) In a news medium controlled by a person whose business is that news medium; and
(iii) Not a medium controlled by a candidate or a political or incidental committee;
(d) Slate cards and sample ballots;
(e) Advertising for books, films, dissertations, or similar works (i) written by a candidate when the candidate entered into a contract for such publications or media at least 12 months before becoming a candidate, or (ii) written about a candidate;
(f) Public service announcements;
(g) An internal political communication primarily limited to the members of or contributors to a political party organization or political or incidental committee, or to the officers, management staff, or stockholders of a corporation or similar enterprise, or to the members of a labor organization or other membership organization;
(h) An expenditure by or contribution to the authorized committee of a candidate for state, local, or judicial office; or
(i) Any other communication exempted by the commission through rule consistent with the intent of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 222.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Electioneering communication.


title: RCW 29B.10.230

text:
"Expenditure" includes a payment, contribution, subscription, distribution, loan, advance, deposit, or gift of money or anything of value, and includes a contract, promise, or agreement, whether or not legally enforceable, to make an expenditure. "Expenditure" also includes a promise to pay, a payment, or a transfer of anything of value in exchange for goods, services, property, facilities, or anything of value for the purpose of assisting, benefiting, or honoring any public official or candidate, or assisting in furthering or opposing any election campaign. For the purposes of this title, agreements to make expenditures, contracts, and promises to pay may be reported as estimated obligations until actual payment is made. "Expenditure" shall not include the partial or complete repayment by a candidate or political or incidental committee of the principal of a loan, the receipt of which loan has been properly reported.
[ 2024 c 164 s 223.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Expenditure.


title: RCW 29B.10.240

text:
"Final report" means the report described as a final report in RCW 29B.25.090(11)(a).
[ 2024 c 164 s 224.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Final report.


title: RCW 29B.10.250

text:
"Foreign national" means:
(1) An individual who is not a citizen of the United States and is not lawfully admitted for permanent residence;
(2) A government, or subdivision, of a foreign country;
(3) A foreign political party; and
(4) Any entity, such as a partnership, association, corporation, organization, or other combination of persons, that is organized under the laws of or has its principal place of business in a foreign country.
[ 2024 c 164 s 225.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Foreign national.


title: RCW 29B.10.260

text:
"General election," for the purposes of RCW 29B.40.020, means the election that results in the election of a person to a state or local office. It does not include a primary.
[ 2024 c 164 s 226.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: General election.


title: RCW 29B.10.270

text:
"Gift" has the definition in RCW 42.52.150.
[ 2025 c 377 s 22; 2024 c 164 s 227.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 377 ss 2, 10, 14, 22, 24, 26, and 28: See note following RCW 42.52.010.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Gift.


title: RCW 29B.10.280

text:
"Immediate family" includes the spouse or domestic partner, dependent children, and other dependent relatives, if living in the household. For the purposes of the definition of "intermediary" in RCW 29B.10.320, "immediate family" means an individual's spouse or domestic partner, and child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, brother, half brother, sister, or half sister of the individual and the spouse or the domestic partner of any such person and a child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, brother, half brother, sister, or half sister of the individual's spouse or domestic partner and the spouse or the domestic partner of any such person.
[ 2024 c 164 s 228.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Immediate family.


title: RCW 29B.10.290

text:
"Incidental committee" means any nonprofit organization not otherwise defined as a political committee but that may incidentally make a contribution or an expenditure in excess of the reporting thresholds in RCW 29B.25.090, directly or through a political committee. Any nonprofit organization is not an incidental committee if it is only remitting payments through the nonprofit organization in an aggregated form and the nonprofit organization is not required to report those payments in accordance with this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 229.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Incidental committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.300

text:
"Incumbent" means a person who is in present possession of an elected office.
[ 2024 c 164 s 230.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Incumbent.


title: RCW 29B.10.310

text:
(1) "Independent expenditure" means an expenditure that has each of the following elements:
(a) It is made in support of or in opposition to a candidate for office by a person who is not:
(i) A candidate for that office;
(ii) An authorized committee of that candidate for that office; and
(iii) A person who has received the candidate's encouragement or approval to make the expenditure, if the expenditure pays in whole or in part for political advertising supporting that candidate or promoting the defeat of any other candidate or candidates for that office;
(b) It is made in support of or in opposition to a candidate for office by a person with whom the candidate has not collaborated for the purpose of making the expenditure, if the expenditure pays in whole or in part for political advertising supporting that candidate or promoting the defeat of any other candidate or candidates for that office;
(c) The expenditure pays in whole or in part for political advertising that either specifically names the candidate supported or opposed, or clearly and beyond any doubt identifies the candidate without using the candidate's name; and
(d) The expenditure, alone or in conjunction with another expenditure or other expenditures of the same person in support of or opposition to that candidate, has a value of $1,000 or more. A series of expenditures, each of which is under $1,000, constitutes one independent expenditure if their cumulative value is $1,000 or more.
(2) "Independent expenditure" does not include: Ordinary home hospitality; communications with journalists or editorial staff designed to elicit a news item, feature, commentary, or editorial in a regularly scheduled news medium that is of primary interest to the general public, controlled by a person whose business is that news medium, and not controlled by a candidate or a political committee; participation in the creation of a publicly funded voters' pamphlet statement in written or video form; an internal political communication primarily limited to contributors to a political party organization or political action committee, the officers, management staff, and stockholders of a corporation or similar enterprise, or the members of a labor organization or other membership organization; or the rendering of personal services of the sort commonly performed by volunteer campaign workers or incidental expenses personally incurred by volunteer campaign workers not in excess of $250 personally paid for by the worker.
[ 2024 c 164 s 231.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Independent expenditure.


title: RCW 29B.10.320

text:
(1) "Intermediary" means an individual who transmits a contribution to a candidate or committee from another person unless the contribution is from the individual's employer, immediate family, or an association to which the individual belongs.
(2) A treasurer or a candidate is not an intermediary for purposes of the committee that the treasurer or candidate serves.
(3) A professional fund-raiser is not an intermediary if the fund-raiser is compensated for fund-raising services at the usual and customary rate.
(4) A volunteer hosting a fund-raising event at the individual's home is not an intermediary for purposes of that event.
[ 2024 c 164 s 232.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Intermediary.


title: RCW 29B.10.330

text:
"Legislation" means bills, resolutions, motions, amendments, nominations, and other matters pending or proposed in either house of the state legislature, and includes any other matter that may be the subject of action by either house or any committee of the legislature and all bills and resolutions that, having passed both houses, are pending approval by the governor.
[ 2024 c 164 s 233.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Legislation.


title: RCW 29B.10.340

text:
"Legislative office" means the office of a member of the state house of representatives or the office of a member of the state senate.
[ 2024 c 164 s 234.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Legislative office.


title: RCW 29B.10.350

text:
"Lobby" and "lobbying" each mean attempting to influence the passage or defeat of any legislation by the legislature of the state of Washington, or the adoption or rejection of any rule, standard, rate, or other legislative enactment of any state agency under the state administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. Neither "lobby" nor "lobbying" includes an association's or other organization's act of communicating with the members of that association or organization.
[ 2024 c 164 s 235.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Lobby—Lobbying.


title: RCW 29B.10.360

text:
"Lobbyist" includes any person who lobbies either on the person's own or another's behalf.
[ 2024 c 164 s 236.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Lobbyist.


title: RCW 29B.10.370

text:
"Lobbyist's employer" means the person or persons by whom a lobbyist is employed and all persons by whom the lobbyist is compensated for acting as a lobbyist.
[ 2024 c 164 s 237.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Lobbyist's employer.


title: RCW 29B.10.380

text:
"Ministerial functions" means an act or duty carried out as part of the duties of an administrative office without exercise of personal judgment or discretion.
[ 2024 c 164 s 238.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Ministerial functions.


title: RCW 29B.10.390

text:
"Participate" means that, with respect to a particular election, an entity:
(1) Makes either a monetary or in-kind contribution to a candidate;
(2) Makes an independent expenditure or electioneering communication in support of or opposition to a candidate;
(3) Endorses a candidate before contributions are made by a subsidiary corporation or local unit with respect to that candidate or that candidate's opponent;
(4) Makes a recommendation regarding whether a candidate should be supported or opposed before a contribution is made by a subsidiary corporation or local unit with respect to that candidate or that candidate's opponent; or
(5) Directly or indirectly collaborates or consults with a subsidiary corporation or local unit on matters relating to the support of or opposition to a candidate including, but not limited to, the amount of a contribution, when a contribution should be given, and what assistance, services, or independent expenditures, or electioneering communications, if any, will be made or should be made in support of or opposition to a candidate.
[ 2024 c 164 s 239.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Participate.


title: RCW 29B.10.400

text:
"Person" includes an individual, partnership, joint venture, public or private corporation, association, federal, state, or local governmental entity or agency however constituted, candidate, committee, political committee, political party, executive committee thereof, or any other organization or group of persons, however organized.
[ 2024 c 164 s 240.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Person.


title: RCW 29B.10.410

text:
"Political advertising" includes any advertising displays, newspaper ads, billboards, signs, brochures, articles, tabloids, flyers, letters, radio or television presentations, digital communication, or other means of mass communication, used for the purpose of appealing, directly or indirectly, for votes or for financial or other support or opposition in any election campaign.
[ 2024 c 164 s 241.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Political advertising.


title: RCW 29B.10.420

text:
"Political committee" means any person (except a candidate or an individual dealing with the candidate's or individual's own funds or property) having the expectation of receiving contributions or making expenditures in support of, or opposition to, any candidate or any ballot proposition.
[ 2024 c 164 s 242.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Political committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.430

text:
"Primary," for the purposes of RCW 29B.40.020, means the procedure for nominating a candidate to state or local office under chapter 29A.52 RCW or any other primary for an election that uses, in large measure, the procedures established in chapter 29A.52 RCW.
[ 2024 c 164 s 243.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Primary.


title: RCW 29B.10.440

text:
"Public office" means any federal, state, judicial, county, city, town, school district, port district, special district, or other state political subdivision elective office.
[ 2024 c 164 s 244.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Public office.


title: RCW 29B.10.450

text:
"Public record" has the definition in RCW 42.56.010.
[ 2024 c 164 s 245.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Public record.


title: RCW 29B.10.460

text:
"Recall campaign" means the period of time beginning on the date of the filing of recall charges under RCW 29A.56.120 and ending 30 days after the recall election.
[ 2024 c 164 s 246.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Recall campaign.


title: RCW 29B.10.470

text:
"Remediable violation" means any violation of this title that:
(1) Involved expenditures or contributions totaling no more than the contribution limits set out under RCW 29B.40.020(2) per election, or $1,000 if there is no statutory limit;
(2) Occurred:
(a) More than 30 days before an election, where the commission entered into an agreement to resolve the matter; or
(b) At any time where the violation did not constitute a material violation because it was inadvertent and minor or otherwise has been cured and, after consideration of all the circumstances, further proceedings would not serve the purposes of this title;
(3) Does not materially harm the public interest, beyond the harm to the policy of this title inherent in any violation; and
(4) Involved:
(a) A person who:
(i) Took corrective action within five business days after the commission first notified the person of noncompliance, or where the commission did not provide notice and filed a required report within 21 days after the report was due to be filed; and
(ii) Substantially met the filing deadline for all other required reports within the immediately preceding 12-month period; or
(b) A candidate who:
(i) Lost the election in question; and
(ii) Did not receive contributions over 100 times the contribution limit in aggregate per election during the campaign in question.
[ 2024 c 164 s 247.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Remediable violation.


title: RCW 29B.10.480

text:
(1) "Sponsor," for purposes of an electioneering communications, independent expenditures, or political advertising, means the person paying for the electioneering communication, independent expenditure, or political advertising. If a person acts as an agent for another or is reimbursed by another for the payment, the original source of the payment is the sponsor.
(2) "Sponsor," for purposes of a political or incidental committee, means any person, except an authorized committee, to whom any of the following applies:
(a) The committee receives 80 percent or more of its contributions either from the person or from the person's members, officers, employees, or shareholders;
(b) The person collects contributions for the committee by use of payroll deductions or dues from its members, officers, or employees.
[ 2024 c 164 s 248.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Sponsor.


title: RCW 29B.10.490

text:
"Sponsored committee" means a committee, other than an authorized committee, that has one or more sponsors.
[ 2024 c 164 s 249.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Sponsored committee.


title: RCW 29B.10.500

text:
"State office" means state legislative office or the office of governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, commissioner of public lands, insurance commissioner, superintendent of public instruction, state auditor, or state treasurer.
[ 2024 c 164 s 250.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: State office.


title: RCW 29B.10.510

text:
"State official" means a person who holds a state office.
[ 2024 c 164 s 251.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: State official.


title: RCW 29B.10.520

text:
"Surplus funds" mean, in the case of a political committee or candidate, the balance of contributions that remain in the possession or control of that committee or candidate subsequent to the election for which the contributions were received, and that are in excess of the amount necessary to pay remaining debts or expenses incurred by the committee or candidate with respect to that election. In the case of a continuing political committee, "surplus funds" mean those contributions remaining in the possession or control of the committee that are in excess of the amount necessary to pay all remaining debts or expenses when it makes its final report under RCW 29B.25.120.
[ 2024 c 164 s 252.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Surplus funds.


title: RCW 29B.10.530

text:
"Technical correction" means the correction of a minor or ministerial error in a required report that does not materially harm the public interest and needs to be corrected for the report to be in full compliance with the requirements of this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 253.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Technical correction.


title: RCW 29B.10.540

text:
"Treasurer" and "deputy treasurer" mean the individuals appointed by a candidate or political or incidental committee, pursuant to RCW 29B.25.040, to perform the duties specified in that section.
[ 2024 c 164 s 254.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Treasurer—Deputy treasurer.


title: RCW 29B.10.550

text:
"Violation" means a violation of this title that is not a remediable violation, minor violation, or an error classified by the commission as appropriate to address by a technical correction.
[ 2024 c 164 s 255.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.

catchline: Violation.


title: RCW 29B.15.010

text:
(1) For each required report, as technology permits, the commission shall make an electronic reporting tool available to all those who are required to file that report under this title.
(2) All persons required to file reports under this title must file them electronically where the commission has provided an electronic option. The executive director may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis for persons who lack the technological ability to file reports electronically.
(3) If the electronic filing system provided by the commission is inoperable for any period of time, the commission must keep a record of the date and time of each instance and post outages on its website. If a report is due on a day the electronic filing system is inoperable, it is not late if filed the first business day the system is back in operation. The commission must provide notice to all reporting entities when the system is back in operation.
(4) All persons required to file reports under this title shall, at the time of initial filing, provide the commission an email address, or other electronic contact information, that shall constitute the official address for purposes of all communications from the commission. The person required to file one or more reports must provide any new electronic contact information to the commission within 10 days, if the address has changed from that listed on the most recent report. Committees must provide the committee treasurer's electronic contact information to the commission. Committees must also provide any new electronic contact information for the committee's treasurer to the commission within 10 days of the change. The executive director may waive the electronic contact information requirement and allow use of a postal address, upon the showing of hardship.
[ 2024 c 164 s 404; 2019 c 428 s 4; 2018 c 304 s 3; 2013 c 166 s 2; 2010 c 204 s 202; 2000 c 237 s 3; 1999 c 401 s 11. Formerly RCW 42.17A.055, 42.17.369.]
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: "This act takes effect January 1, 2014." [ 2013 c 166 s 3.]
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: "Sections 101 through 504, 506 through 601, 603 through 702, and 801 through 1103 of chapter 204, Laws of 2010 take effect January 1, 2012." [ 2010 1st sp.s. c 26 s 10; 2010 c 204 s 1105. Formerly RCW 42.17A.918.]

catchline: Electronic filing—Availability.


title: RCW 29B.15.020

text:
It is the intent of the legislature to ensure that the commission provide the general public timely access to all contribution and expenditure reports submitted by candidates, continuing political committees, bona fide political parties, lobbyists, and lobbyists' employers. The legislature finds that failure to meet goals for full and timely disclosure threatens to undermine our electoral process.
Furthermore, the legislature intends for the commission to consult with Washington technology solutions as it seeks to implement chapter 401, Laws of 1999, and that the commission follow the standards and procedures established by Washington technology solutions in chapter 43.105 RCW as they relate to information technology.
[ 2024 c 164 s 405; 2024 c 54 s 39; 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 732; 1999 c 401 s 1. Formerly RCW 42.17A.060, 42.17.460.]
Notes:
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 732: "Section 732 of this act takes effect January 1, 2012." [ 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 1015.]
Purpose—2011 1st sp.s. c 43: See note following RCW 43.19.003.

catchline: Access to reports—Legislative intent.


title: RCW 29B.15.030

text:
By July 1st of each year, the commission shall calculate the following performance measures, provide a copy of the performance measures to the governor and appropriate legislative committees, and make the performance measures available to the public:
(1) The average number of days that elapse between the commission's receipt of reports filed under RCW 29B.25.020, 29B.25.070, 29B.25.090, 29B.25.120, 29B.25.140, 29B.50.010, 29B.50.050, 29B.50.070, and 29B.50.080 and the time that the report, a copy of the report, or a copy of the data or information included in the report, is first accessible to the general public (a) in the commission's office, and (b) via the commission's website;
(2) The percentage of filers pursuant to RCW 29B.15.010 who have used: (a) Hard copy paper format; or (b) electronic format.
[ 2024 c 164 s 406; 2019 c 428 s 5; 2010 c 204 s 204; 1999 c 401 s 3. Formerly RCW 42.17A.065, 42.17.463.]
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.

catchline: Access performance measures.


title: RCW 29B.20.010

text:
(1) The public disclosure commission is established. The commission shall be composed of five commissioners appointed by the governor, with the consent of the senate. The commission shall have the authority and duties as set forth in this title. All appointees shall be persons of the highest integrity and qualifications. No more than three commissioners shall have an identification with the same political party.
(2) The term of each commissioner shall be five years, which may continue until a successor is appointed, but may not exceed an additional 12 months. No commissioner is eligible for appointment to more than one full term. Any commissioner may be removed by the governor, but only upon grounds of neglect of duty or misconduct in office.
(3)(a) During a commissioner's tenure, the commissioner is prohibited from engaging in any of the following activities, either within or outside the state of Washington:
(i) Holding or campaigning for elective office;
(ii) Serving as an officer of any political party or political committee;
(iii) Permitting the commissioner's name to be used in support of or in opposition to a candidate or proposition;
(iv) Soliciting or making contributions to a candidate or in support of or in opposition to any candidate or proposition;
(v) Participating in any way in any election campaign; or
(vi) Lobbying, employing, or assisting a lobbyist, except that a commissioner or the staff of the commission may lobby to the limited extent permitted by RCW 29B.50.090 on matters directly affecting this title.
(b) This subsection is not intended to prohibit a commissioner from participating in or supporting nonprofit or other organizations, in the commissioner's private capacity, to the extent such participation is not prohibited under (a) of this subsection.
(c) The provisions of this subsection do not relieve a commissioner of any applicable disqualification and recusal requirements.
(4) A vacancy on the commission shall be filled within 30 days of the vacancy by the governor, with the consent of the senate, and the appointee shall serve for the remaining term of the appointee's predecessor. A vacancy shall not impair the powers of the remaining commissioners to exercise all of the powers of the commission.
(5) Three commissioners shall constitute a quorum. The commission shall elect its own chair and adopt its own rules of procedure in the manner provided in chapter 34.05 RCW.
(6) Commissioners shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.250 and shall be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred while engaged in the business of the commission as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060. The compensation provided pursuant to this section shall not be considered salary for purposes of the provisions of any retirement system created under the laws of this state.
[ 2024 c 164 s 407; 2019 c 428 s 6; 2010 c 204 s 301; 1998 c 30 s 1; 1984 c 287 s 74; 1982 c 147 s 15; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112 s 8; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 93; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 23; 1973 c 1 s 35 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.100, 42.17.350.]
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.
Legislative findings—Severability—Effective date—1984 c 287: See notes following RCW 43.03.220.
Construction—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 112: See note following RCW 29B.60.020.
Effective date—Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34: See notes following RCW 2.08.115.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Public disclosure commission—Established—Commissioners—Prohibited activities—Compensation, travel expenses.


title: RCW 29B.20.020

text:
The commission shall:
(1) Develop and provide forms for the reports and statements required to be made under this title;
(2) Prepare and publish a manual setting forth recommended uniform methods of bookkeeping and reporting for use by persons required to make reports and statements under this title;
(3) Compile and maintain a current list of all filed reports and statements;
(4) Investigate whether properly completed statements and reports have been filed within the times required by this title;
(5) Upon complaint or upon its own motion, investigate and report apparent violations of this title to the appropriate law enforcement authorities;
(6) Conduct a sufficient number of audits and field investigations to provide a statistically valid finding regarding the degree of compliance with the provisions of this title by all required filers. Any documents, records, reports, computer files, papers, or materials provided to the commission for use in conducting audits and investigations must be returned to the candidate, campaign, or political committee from which they were received within one week of the commission's completion of an audit or field investigation;
(7) Prepare and publish an annual report to the governor as to the effectiveness of this title and its enforcement by appropriate law enforcement authorities;
(8) Enforce this title according to the powers granted it by law;
(9) Adopt rules governing the arrangement, handling, indexing, and disclosing of those reports required by this title to be filed with a county auditor or county elections official. The rules shall:
(a) Ensure ease of access by the public to the reports; and
(b) Include, but not be limited to, requirements for indexing the reports by the names of candidates or political committees and by the ballot proposition for or against which a political committee is receiving contributions or making expenditures;
(10) Adopt rules to carry out the policies of chapter 348, Laws of 2006. The adoption of these rules is not subject to the time restrictions of RCW 29B.20.030(1);
(11) Adopt administrative rules establishing requirements for filer participation in any system designed and implemented by the commission for the electronic filing of reports; and
(12) Maintain and make available to the public and political committees of this state a toll-free telephone number.
[ 2024 c 164 s 408; 2010 c 204 s 302; 1973 c 1 s 36 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.105, 42.17.360.]
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: Commission—Duties.


title: RCW 29B.20.030

text:
In addition to the duties in RCW 29B.20.020, the commission may:
(1) Adopt, amend, and rescind suitable administrative rules to carry out the policies and purposes of this title, which rules shall be adopted under chapter 34.05 RCW. Any rule relating to campaign finance, political advertising, or related forms that would otherwise take effect after June 30th of a general election year shall take effect no earlier than the day following the general election in that year;
(2) Appoint an executive director and set, within the limits established by the office of financial management under RCW 43.03.028, the executive director's compensation. The executive director shall perform such duties and have such powers as the commission may prescribe and delegate to implement and enforce this title efficiently and effectively. The commission shall not delegate its authority to adopt, amend, or rescind rules nor may it delegate authority to determine that a violation of this title has occurred or to assess penalties for such violations;
(3) Prepare and publish reports and technical studies as in its judgment will tend to promote the purposes of this title, including reports and statistics concerning campaign financing, lobbying, financial interests of elected officials, and enforcement of this title;
(4) Conduct, as it deems appropriate, audits and field investigations;
(5) Make public the time and date of any formal hearing set to determine whether a violation has occurred, the question or questions to be considered, and the results thereof;
(6) Administer oaths and affirmations, issue subpoenas, and compel attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any records relevant to any investigation authorized under this title, or any other proceeding under this title;
(7) Adopt a code of fair campaign practices;
(8) Adopt rules relieving candidates or political committees of obligations to comply with election campaign provisions of this title, if they have not received contributions nor made expenditures in connection with any election campaign of more than *five thousand dollars;
(9) Develop and provide to filers a system for certification of reports required under this title which are transmitted electronically to the commission. Implementation of the program is contingent on the availability of funds; and
(10) Make available and keep current on its website a glossary of all defined terms in this title and in rules adopted by the commission.
[ 2024 c 164 s 409; 2019 c 428 s 8; 2018 c 304 s 4; 2015 c 225 s 55. Prior: 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 448; 2011 c 60 s 20; prior: 2010 1st sp.s. c 7 s 4; 2010 c 204 s 303; 1995 c 397 s 17; 1994 c 40 s 3; 1986 c 155 s 11; 1985 c 367 s 11; 1984 c 34 s 7; 1977 ex.s. c 336 s 7; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 25; 1973 c 1 s 37 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.110, 42.17.370.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The dollar amounts in this section may have been adjusted for inflation by rule of the commission adopted under the authority of RCW 29B.20.050. For current dollar amounts, see WAC 390-05-400.
Intent—Construction—Rules remain valid—Effective date—2024 c 164: See notes following RCW 29B.10.010.
Finding—Effective date—2019 c 428: See notes following RCW 29B.20.110.
Finding—Intent—2018 c 304: See note following RCW 29B.25.090.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 448: "Section 448 of this act takes effect January 1, 2012." [ 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 s 481.]
Purpose—2011 1st sp.s. c 43: See note following RCW 43.19.003.
Effective date—2011 c 60: "This act takes effect January 1, 2012." [ 2011 c 60 s 53. Formerly RCW 42.17A.919.]
Effective date—2010 1st sp.s. c 26; 2010 1st sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.03.027.
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.
Findings—1994 c 40: "The legislature finds that government information is a strategic resource and needs to be managed as such and that broad public access to nonrestricted public information and records must be guaranteed. The legislature further finds that reengineering government processes along with capitalizing on advancements made in digital technology can build greater efficiencies in government service delivery. The legislature further finds that providing citizen electronic access to presently available public documents will allow increased citizen involvement in state policies and empower citizens to participate in state policy decision making." [ 1994 c 40 s 1.]
Effective date—1994 c 40: "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 shall take effect immediately [March 21, 1994]." [ 1994 c 40 s 7.]
Contingent effective date—Severability—1986 c 155: See notes following RCW 43.03.300.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 336: See note following RCW 29B.25.020.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Commission—Additional powers.


title: RCW 29B.20.040

text:
(1) The commission may suspend or modify any of the reporting requirements of this title if it finds that literal application of this title works a manifestly unreasonable hardship in a particular case and the suspension or modification will not frustrate the purposes of this title. The commission may suspend or modify reporting requirements only to the extent necessary to substantially relieve the hardship and only after a hearing is held and the suspension or modification receives approval. A suspension or modification of the financial affairs reporting requirements in RCW 29B.55.030 may be approved for an elected official's term of office or for up to three years for an executive state officer. If a material change in the applicant's circumstances or relevant information occurs or has occurred, the applicant must request a modification at least one month prior to the next filing deadline rather than at the conclusion of the term.
(2) A manifestly unreasonable hardship exists if reporting the name of an entity required to be reported under RCW 29B.55.030(1)(g)(ii) would be likely to adversely affect the competitive position of any entity in which the person filing the report, or any member of the person's immediate family, holds any office, directorship, general partnership interest, or an ownership interest of 10 percent or more.
(3) Requests for reporting modifications may be heard in a brief adjudicative proceeding as set forth in RCW 34.05.482 through 34.05.494 and in accordance with the standards established in this section. The commission, the commission chair acting as presiding officer, or another commissioner appointed by the chair to serve as presiding officer, may preside over a brief adjudicatory proceeding. If a modification is requested by a filer because of a concern for personal safety, the information submitted regarding that safety concern shall not be made public prior to, or at, the hearing on the request. Any information provided or prepared for the modification hearing shall remain exempt from public disclosure under this title and chapter 42.56 RCW to the extent it is determined at the hearing that disclosure of such information would present a personal safety risk to a reasonable person.
(4) If the commission, or presiding officer, grants a modification request, the commission or presiding officer may apply the modification retroactively to previously filed reports. In that event, previously reported information of the kind that is no longer being reported is confidential and exempt from public disclosure under this title and chapter 42.56 RCW.
(5) Any citizen has standing to bring an action in Thurston county superior court to contest the propriety of any order entered under this section within one year from the date of the entry of the order.
(6) The commission shall adopt rules governing the proceedings.
[ 2024 c 164 s 410; 2019 c 428 s 10; 2010 c 204 s 304. Formerly RCW 42.17A.120.]
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.

catchline: Suspension or modification of reporting requirements.


title: RCW 29B.20.050

text:
At least once every five years, but no more often than every two years, the commission must consider whether to revise the monetary contribution limits and reporting thresholds and code values of this title. If the commission chooses to make revisions, the revisions shall be only for the purpose of recognizing economic changes as reflected by an inflationary index recommended by the office of financial management, and may be rounded off to amounts as determined by the commission to be most accessible for public understanding. The revisions shall be guided by the change in the index for the period commencing with the month of December preceding the last revision and concluding with the month of December preceding the month the revision is adopted. As to each of the three general categories of this title, reports of campaign finance, reports of lobbyist activity, and reports of the financial affairs of elected and appointed officials, the revisions shall equally affect all thresholds within each category. The revisions authorized by this subsection shall reflect economic changes from the time of the last legislative enactment affecting the respective code or threshold.
Revisions made in accordance with this section shall be adopted as rules in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW.
[ 2024 c 164 s 411; 2019 c 428 s 11; 2011 c 60 s 21; 2010 c 204 s 305; 1993 c 2 s 9 (Initiative Measure No. 134, approved November 3, 1992). Formerly RCW 42.17A.125, 42.17.690.]
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—2011 c 60: See note following RCW 29B.20.030.
Effective date—2010 c 204 ss 101-504, 506-601, 603-702, and 801-1103: See note following RCW 29B.15.010.
Short title—1993 c 2: See note following RCW 29B.40.010.

catchline: Revising monetary contribution limits, reporting thresholds, and code values.


title: RCW 29B.20.060

text:
The attorney general, through his or her office, shall provide assistance as required by the commission to carry out its responsibilities under this title. The commission may employ attorneys who are neither the attorney general nor an assistant attorney general to carry out any function of the attorney general prescribed in this title.
[ 2024 c 164 s 412. Prior: 2010 c 205 s 8; 2010 c 204 s 306; 1982 c 35 s 196; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 s 26; 1973 c 1 s 38 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17A.130, 42.17.380.]
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.
Intent—Severability—Effective dates—Application—1982 c 35: See notes following RCW 43.07.160.
Effective date—Construction—1973 c 1: See notes following RCW 29B.05.010.

catchline: Duties of attorney general.