SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6239

BYSenators Nelson, Talmadge, Madsen and Moore

Authorizing service of process by mail in district courts.

Senate Committee on Law & Justice

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 18, 1990; January 29, 1990

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6239 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Nelson, Chairman; McCaslin, Vice Chairman; Madsen, Patrick, Talmadge, Thorsness.

Senate Staff:Anita Neal (786-7418)

                  January 30, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE, JANUARY 29, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Current law requires that service of a complaint and notice in district court actions be conducted by delivering a copy of the complaint and notice to the defendant or leaving them at the defendant's residence with anyone over twelve years of age.

SUMMARY:

Service of a notice and complaint may be conducted by registered or certified mail in district court actions.  A return receipt with the signature of the party served shall be filed with the court after service is completed by registered or certified mail.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

A plaintiff may request that a process server serve the defendant by registered or certified mail.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Gary Ramey, WSPSA; Andrew Estin, NAPPS; Geoffrey Gese, WSPSA; Dan Hunter, Washington Collectors Association; Ben Wood, Washington Collectors Association