| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee | |
HB 1714
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: Changing campaign contribution provisions.
Sponsors: Representative Chase.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/13/07
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
The Fair Campaign Practices Act was enacted following passage of Initiative 134 in 1992. The
initiative imposed campaign contribution limits, further regulated independent expenditures,
restricted the use of public funds for political purposes, and required public officials to report
gifts received in excess of $50. The contribution limits imposed by Initiative 134 apply only to
elections for statewide office and elections to state legislative office.
In addition to limits imposed on individuals, businesses, unions and political action committees,
limits were imposed on political parties. State party central committees, minor party
committees, and legislative caucus committees may contribute an aggregate of up to $0.70 per
registered voter in the candidate's district for an election cycle. County central committees and
legislative district committees may contribute an aggregate of up to $0.35 per registered voter in
the candidate's district. Contributions received from county central committees and legislative
district committees combined may not exceed an amount more that $0.35 times the number of
registered voters statewide to any one candidate.
All campaign contribution limits are adjusted for inflation by the Public Disclosure Commission
every two years.
Summary of Bill:
County central committees and legislative district committees may each contribute an aggregate
of up to $0.70 per registered voter in the candidate's district. Contributions received from county
central committees and legislative district committees are no longer combined as an aggregate
contribution.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.