SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SJR 8206

                            AS OF JANUARY 31, 1991

Brief Description:  Amending the Constitution to limit the terms of state elected officials.

SPONSORS:Senators Saling, Metcalf, Amondson, Thorsness, Barr, Stratton and Bailey.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS

Staff:  Martin Lovinger (786‑7443)

Hearing Dates:February 7, 1991

BACKGROUND:

Active efforts to curb what is perceived as entrenched incumbency by public office holders are receiving considerable attention and support around the United States.  Presently the state of Washington has no limitation on the number of years that can be served by legislators.

SUMMARY:

No person may serve as senator or representative or combination thereof for more than 12 years whether such service is consecutive or nonconsecutive.  A person may not file for or be appointed to either office if serving the term or remainder would violate the 12 year limit.  Service as a senator or representative prior to the second Monday in January 1993 shall not be applied to the 12 year limitation. 

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested