Brief Description: Allowing public funding of local office campaigns.

Sponsors: Representatives McDermott, Clibborn, Dickerson, Santos, Moeller, Simpson and McIntire.

Hearing Date: 2/4/05

Staff: Hannah Lidman (786-7291).

Background:

In November 1992 Washington voters approved Initiative 134, which contained contribution limits on elections for state office and a statutory prohibition against the use of public funds in financing campaigns for state or local office. Initiative 134 is also known as the Fair Campaign Practices Act.

Created by the passage of Initiative 276 in 1972, the Public Disclosure Commission is responsible for enforcing the laws relating to personal financial reporting, lobbyist reporting, campaign finance reporting, campaign contribution limits, and independent expenditure reporting.

Summary of Bill:

The prohibition against the use of public funds to finance political campaigns for local office is removed. However, public funds may not be used to finance political campaigns for state office.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.