| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee | |
HB 1018
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Modifying the time limit for state officials to solicit or accept contributions.
Sponsors: Representatives Orcutt, Haigh, Haler, Takko, Pearson, Strow, Schindler, McCune, Blake, Chandler, Moeller and Seaquist.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/26/07
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
Initiative 134 established campaign contribution limits for state legislative office and statewide
executive office. The initiative prohibited a state official, and persons employed by or acting on
behalf of a state official, from soliciting or accepting contributions to a public office fund, an
authorized committee, or to retire a campaign debt during the periods 30 days before, during, and
30 days after a legislative session. The prohibition was extended through the period of any
special session.
In 2006, legislation was enacted changing the date of the primary from the third Tuesday in
September to the third Tuesday in August. In that legislation, the 30-day post session freeze was
eliminated, allowing state officials to solicit and accept contributions the day after a legislative
session ends, including any special session.
Summary of Bill:
The post-session freeze for soliciting and accepting contributions is changed from the day after
to 30 days after a legislative session ends.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.