SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6240

                    As of January 18, 2000

Title:  An act relating to legal newspapers.

Brief Description:  Amending the definition of "legal newspaper."

Sponsors:  Senators Honeyford, Haugen and Gardner.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  State & Local Government:  1/19/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff:  Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background:  All legal and other official notices must be published in a newspaper approved as a legal newspaper by the superior court of the county in which the newspaper is published.  The requirements for a legal newspaper are that it be of general interest, having been published for at least six months prior to its application to the superior court for approval.  It must also be published regularly, at least once a week, in English, and be compiled in an office maintained in the city or town of publication.  It must also hold a second class mailing permit.

Summary of Bill:  The definition of a newspaper is adjusted to encompass Internet newspapers by making accommodations for the peculiarities of the production of Internet newspapers.  The definition also includes newspapers serving county or multicounty areas.  In making the decision to approve the newspaper, the superior court must weigh heavily in favor of the local elected officials who make the decision to publish the legal advertisements for their jurisdictions by printed or Internet newspaper.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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