HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                      Olympia, Washington

Bill Analysis      Bill No. HB 2725

Public Disclosure Commission/Subpoenas          Hrg Date:  2/3/98

Brief Title

Reps. Dunn/Koster                                             Staff:  Caroleen Dineen

Sponsor                                    Comm. on Govt. Admin.

                                           Phone: 786-7156

BACKGROUND:

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) is a five-member board appointed by the Governor with the consent of the Senate.   PDC members are appointed for five-year terms.

The PDC is charged with enforcing laws related to public records, campaign financing, lobbyist registration and reporting, political advertising, financial reporting of public officials, and campaign contribution limitations.  The PDC is also charged with investigating whether reporting requirements have been satisfied and whether violations of public disclosure laws have occurred.

The PDC is authorized to determine if any public disclosure law has been violated.  Before issuing an order regarding such a determination, the PDC must hold a hearing.  In lieu of holding the hearing, the PDC may refer matters to the attorney general or appropriate law enforcement agencies.

The PDC is authorized to issue subpoenas in connection with the investigations and hearings it conducts.

SUMMARY:

The Public Disclosure Commission=s subpoena power is restricted.

The Public Disclosure Commission must obtain a court order in order to issue a subpoena in connection with its investigations and hearings.

FISCAL NOTE:  Not Requested.

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.