SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1426
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 Reported by Senate Committee On:
Judiciary, March 25, 2009
Title: An act relating to the use of certified mail.
Brief Description: Regarding the use of certified mail.
Sponsors: Representatives Hunt and Condotta.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/23/09, 96-1.
Committee Activity: Judiciary: 3/25/09 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Kline, Chair; Regala, Vice Chair; McCaslin, Ranking Minority Member; Kohl-Welles, Roach and Tom.
Staff: Juliana Roe (786-7438)
Background: Notice is often provided by certified mail with return receipt requested. Many court documents are served on interested parties using certified mail with return receipt requested.
The U.S. Postal Service allows a mailer purchasing return receipt service to choose to receive the return receipt by mail or email. Mailers that receive the return receipt in the mail receive a green postcard with the recipient's actual signature or approved hand-stamp. Mailers that receive the return receipt via email receive a proof of delivery letter arriving as a PDF attachment that includes an image of the recipient's signature or an approved hand-stamp. The charge for receiving a return by mail is $2.20 and by email is $1.00.
Summary of Bill: The use of electronic return receipt delivery confirmation, provided by the U.S. Postal Service, whenever a statute allows the use of "certified mail with a return receipt requested" is allowed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a cost saving bill. It allows agencies to do things electronically. This is a cheaper, easier, and better way of doing business. Individuals can track their items online and receipts are kept online for seven years. This bill allows us to use the same technology as the IRS currently uses.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Hunt, prime sponsor; Stu Halsan, Towing and Recovery Association of Washington.