Brief Description: Allowing use of public funds to finance local political campaigns.

Sponsors: Representatives Miloscia, Haigh, McDermott, Chase and Kagi.

Hearing Date: 1/30/04

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

The Public Disclosure Act was enacted following passage of Initiative 276 in 1972. Among the stated purposes of the legislation was an intent to make information on political campaign and lobbying contributions available to the public. With a few exceptions, the requirements of the initiative applied to all election campaigns.

The Fair Campaign Practices Act was enacted following passage of Initiative 134 in 1992. The latter initiative imposed campaign contribution limits on elections for state office. It also prohibited the use of public funds to finance political campaigns for state or local office.

The Public Disclosure Commission is responsible for enforcing the laws relating to personal financial affairs reporting, lobbyist reporting, campaign finance reporting, campaign contribution limits, and independent expenditure reporting.

Summary of Bill:

The stipulation for using public funds for financing political campaigns for local office is removed. However, no public funds may be used to finance political campaigns for state office.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.