Brief Description: Phasing-in state payment for even-year elections.

Sponsors: Representatives Haigh, Benson, Ahern, Armstrong, Wood, Shabro, Moeller, Blake, Condotta and Upthegrove.

Hearing Date: 2/20/03

Staff: Anne Warwick (786-7291) and Katie Blinn (786-7114).

Background:

The state is responsible for paying a prorated share of the cost of state primary and general elections held in odd-numbered years. County auditors apportion the state's share of election expenses, and file expense claims with the Secretary of State (Secretary). State-wide issues addressed in odd-numbered years are limited to the election of state officers for the remainder of unexpired terms, and the approval or rejection of state measures. Similarly, every city, town and district is responsible for its proportionate share of the costs of a city, town or district election held with other elections. County auditors recover those proportionate costs from each city, town and district.

Summary of Bill:

The state will assume a prorated share of the cost of state primary and general elections held in even-numbered years, but will do so according to the following graduated schedule:

      •    25 percent in 2004

      •    50 percent in 2006

      •    75 percent in 2008

      •    100 percent in 2010

The process for county auditors to file expense claims with the Secretary is already established.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 11, 2003.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.