SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6555
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.
As of February 4, 2008
Title: An act relating to notifying the secretary of state when a person summoned for jury service does not meet the qualifications of a juror.
Brief Description: Requiring notification to the secretary of state when a person summoned for jury service does not meet the qualifications of a juror.
Sponsors: Senators Roach, Pflug, Delvin, Pridemore, Stevens, Parlette, Shin and Benton.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/05/08.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
Background: A person is competent to serve as a juror in the state of Washington if that person
is: at least 18 years of age; a citizen of the United States; a resident of the county in which that
person has been summoned to serve; is able to communicate in the English language; and is not
a convicted felon. If the individual has been convicted of a felony, that person must have his or
her civil rights restored prior to being eligible to serve as a juror.
A person summoned for jury duty must sign, under penalty of perjury, a written declaration that
indicates whether or not the person meets the qualifications to serve as a juror prior to their
appearance at the court to which they are summoned to serve.
Summary of Bill: Requires courts to notify the office of the Secretary of State and the appropriate county election official if a declarant does not meet the qualifications to serve as a juror, with the exception of an ability to communicate in English.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.