Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1483

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: Requiring prepaid postage for primary and general election ballots.

Sponsors: Representatives Green, Miloscia, Hunt, Appleton, McDermott, Ormsby, Hurst, Hasegawa, Dunshee, Springer, Hudgins and Rolfes.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires that return envelopes for primary and general election ballots include prepaid postage.
  • Requires that the state reimburse counties for the cost of return postage on mail and absentee ballots for primary and general elections.

Hearing Date: 2/6/07

Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).

Background:

A county auditor may conduct all elections by mail ballot if given authorization to do
so from the county legislative authority. Most counties in Washington conduct elections entirely by mail. Of those counties that still maintain poll sites, a majority of votes are cast by absentee ballots. Voters are responsible for the postage when mailing their ballots.

Summary of Bill:

Return envelopes for primary and general election ballots shall include prepaid postage. The state will reimburse counties for the cost of return postage on mail and absentee ballots for primary and general elections.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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