Brief Description: Regulating mail to constituents.

Sponsors: Representatives Ruderman, Nixon, Haigh, McDermott, Tom, Miloscia, Clibborn, Hudgins, Cody, Hunter, Kessler and Darneille.

Hearing Date: 2/4/03

Staff: Anne Warwick (786-7291).

Background:

For the 12 month period preceding a general election in which a legislator is running for office, the legislator may not send to constituents, either by regular mail or electronic mail, a letter, newsletter, brochure, or other piece of literature. There are several exceptions to the rule:

•    The legislator may send two newsletters during the 12 month period;

•    The legislator may respond to constituent inquiries;

•    The legislator may send a letter to a constituent who holds a government office having jurisdiction over the subject matter of the letter; and

•    The legislator may send a letter to a constituent who has received an award or honor of extraordinary distinction, such as the Nobel prize or Pultizer prize.

Summary of Bill:

The prohibition against legislative mailings by electronic mail only applies for the period beginning 45 days after the regular session in the year a legislator is running for office and continuing through November 30 immediately following the general election.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

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