Brief Description: Modifying absentee ballot envelope content.

Sponsors: Representatives Holmquist, Haigh, Nixon, Green, Schindler, Clements, Sump, Ahern, McDermott, Haler, Chase, Sells, McDonald, Hasegawa, Kenney, Kristiansen, Bailey and McCune.

Hearing Date: 1/25/06

Staff: Kasa Tupua (786-7291).

Background:

The county auditor (auditor) is an elected official in a non-charter county. Statute specifies numerous duties and responsibilities for the auditor, including directives pertaining to financial and election administration. Regarding election administration, the auditor has the overall responsibility to maintain voter registration and conduct state and local elections in a charter county. Among the prescribed duties for election administration, the auditor is directed to provide places for holding primaries and elections, and provide supplies and materials necessary for the conduct of elections.

As an elected official, the county auditor's name appears on business envelopes and mailings distributed to the public.

Summary of Bill:

When running for re-election, county auditors are prohibited from putting their names on absentee ballot security or return envelopes.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Preliminary fiscal note available.

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