HB 1832

Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1832

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: Shortening the statute of limitations on claims under chapter 42.17 RCW.

Sponsors: Representatives Hunt, Chandler, Williams, Ormsby and Condotta.

Brief Summary of Bill

Decreases to two years the statute of limitations for actions brought for violations under chapter 42.17 RCW.

Hearing Date: 2/21/07

Staff: Alison Hellberg (786-7152).

Background:

Chapter 42.17 RCW governs campaign financing, lobbyist reporting, political advertising and electioneering communications, reporting of public officials' financial affairs, and campaign contribution limits. Among other duties, the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) is responsible for enforcing the provisions of this chapter.

Several civil remedies and sanctions may be imposed by a court order for violations of the requirements of this chapter, including:

If a candidate or political committee violates any provision of this chapter, the outcome of the election may be held void.
If a lobbyist or sponsor of any grassroots lobbying campaign violates any provision of this chapter, his or her registration may be revoked or suspended and he or she may be enjoined from receiving compensation or making expenditures for lobbying.
A person who violates this chapter may be liable for a civil penalty.
A person who fails to report under this chapter may be liable for $10 each day the delinquency continues.

Any action brought under the provisions of this act must be commenced within five years of the violation.

Summary of Bill:

Any action brought under the provisions of this act must be commenced within two years of the violation.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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