SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5991

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.

As of February 20, 2009

Title: An act relating to use of public resources by office holders during campaigns.

Brief Description: Identifying permissible use of public resources by office holders during campaigns.

Sponsors: Senator Benton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/19/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)

Background: With limited exceptions, no state officer or state employee may use or authorize the use of facilities of an agency, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of assisting a campaign for election of a person to an office or for the promotion of or opposition to a ballot proposition. Knowing acquiescence by a person with authority to direct, control, or influence the actions of the state officer or state employee using public resources constitutes a violation.

Facilities of an agency include, but are not limited to, the use of:

Summary of Bill: The list of exceptions on the prohibition on the use of facilities of an agency for the purpose of assisting a campaign for election is expanded to include:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: None.

Persons Testifying: No one.