SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   ESB 5424

                       AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 12, 1991

Brief Description:  Prohibiting the soliciting or accepting of campaign contributions during legislative sessions.

SPONSORS:Senators Erwin, Rasmussen, Nelson, A. Smith, Hayner, L. Kreidler, Newhouse and Thorsness.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Nelson, Chairman; Thorsness, Vice Chairman; Erwin, Hayner, L. Kreidler, Madsen, Rasmussen, and A. Smith. 

Staff:  Jack Brummel (786‑7428)

Hearing Dates:February 15, 1991

BACKGROUND:

The campaign finance laws in Washington regulate fund-raising activity and campaign contributions.  There is currently no statutory prohibition on contributions during legislative sessions.

SUMMARY:

Statewide officials, state legislators, and their employees may not solicit or accept campaign contributions during the period beginning 30 days prior to and ending 30 days past the close of a regular legislative session.  The prohibition also applies during any special session of the Legislature.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:  None

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  No one