Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 2496

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: Modifying ballot design provisions.

Sponsors: Representatives White, Orwall, Chase, Dickerson, Carlyle, Upthegrove, Springer, Nelson, Simpson, Miloscia and Dunshee.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires that ballots have a clear delineation between the instructions and where voting is to begin.

Hearing Date: 1/12/10

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

Clear and concise instructions must be printed at the top of each ballot directing the voter on how to mark the ballot. Questions of adopting constitutional amendments or any other state measure must appear immediately after the ballot instructions and before any offices.

Summary of Bill:

Ballots must have a clear delineation between the ballot instructions and where the voting is to begin. Following ballot instructions, the words "BEGIN VOTING HERE" must appear and be in a font size larger than what is used for ballot instructions and ballot questions.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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