Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1289

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning campaign contributions to candidates for public lands commissioner.

Sponsors: Representatives Nelson, Upthegrove, Chase, Hasegawa, Cody, Williams and Miloscia.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Prohibits campaign contributions to candidates for public lands commissioner by persons or entities that have dealings with the Public Lands Commission.

Hearing Date: 2/5/09

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135)

Background:

Campaign contributions to candidates for state political office are governed by state law. Generally, contributions to candidates for statewide elected office by persons other than bona fide political parties or caucus political committees, are limited to a certain dollar amount (currently $1400) for each election in which the candidate is on the ballot. The only prohibition on campaign contributions is from insurers or fraternal benefit societies doing business in the state to candidates for Insurance Commissioner.

Summary of Bill:

No person or entity that is regulated by, contracts with, leases to, or sells commodities to the public lands commission may make a campaign contribution to a candidate for public lands commissioner. An individual who violates this act is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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