Brief Description: Electing the house of representatives for four-year terms.

Sponsors: Representatives McDonald, Armstrong, Bush, Hankins, Campbell and Haigh.

Hearing Date: 2/6/04

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

Article II, section 5 of the Washington State Constitution sets forth the term of office for members elected to the House of Representatives as two years, elected biennially on the firth Tuesday after the first Monday in November.

Amendments to the State Constitution require a two-thirds majority approval in the Legislature and simple majority approval by the people at the following general election.

Summary of Bill:

The term of office for members of the House of Representatives is increased from two years to four years. Members from even-numbered districts are elected to terms of office of two years and members from odd-numbered districts are elected for terms of four years. Thereafter, all members are elected for four-year terms. Elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even-numbered year.

If the joint resolution is approved by the Legislature, the constitutional amendment will be placed on the November general election ballot for approval by the people.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.