Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

ESB 6430

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: Concerning ballot envelopes.

Sponsors: Senators McDermott, Parlette and Tom.

Brief Summary of Engrossed Bill

Removes the requirement that mail ballot return envelopes must have a secrecy flap to conceal the voter's signature and telephone number.

Hearing Date: 2/23/10

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

Two envelopes are provided for returning mail ballots. The inner envelope is provided for secrecy of the ballot, and the outer return envelope contains a space for the voter to sign the oath and to include a telephone number. In 2005 the Legislature enacted a law that required the outer return envelope to have a "flap" that would cover the voter's signature and optional telephone number.

Summary of Bill:

County auditors are no longer required to provide return envelopes that have a privacy flap to cover the voter's signature and optional telephone number.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available on original bill.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.