| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee | |
HB 1438
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: Prohibiting the forwarding of absentee ballots.
Sponsors: Representatives Chandler, Anderson, McDonald, Haler, Bailey, Newhouse, Condotta, McCune, Strow, Rodne, Armstrong, Roach, Kristiansen, Pearson, Hankins, Skinner, Dunn and Ross.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/6/07
Staff: Colleen Kerr (786-7168).
Background:
Statute provides the requirements for absentee ballot procedure. Whether to forward absentee
ballots is the decision of the local county auditor. If a ballot is forwarded, it must have with it a
clear explanation of the qualifications necessary to vote in the next election and instructions for
the voter to contact the county auditor with any questions about his or her eligibility. This
information may be printed on the ballot, or on an enclosed insert, or printed directly on the
ballot itself. If the information is not provided with the absentee ballot, the envelope must
clearly indicate that the ballot is not to be forwarded and that return postage to the county auditor
is guaranteed.
Summary of Bill:
Absentee ballots may not be forwarded. Absentee ballot envelopes must clearly state that they
must not be forwarded, and should be returned to the county auditor with return postage
guaranteed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 30, 2007.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.