SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1880
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:
Government Operations & Elections, February 22, 2010
Title: An act relating to ballot envelopes.
Brief Description: Concerning ballot envelopes.
Sponsors: Representatives Armstrong, Hunt, Appleton, Alexander and Nelson.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/04/09, 93-2; 2/03/10, 90-0.
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 3/24/09, 3/26/09 [DPA]; 2/22/10 [DPA].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass as amended.
Signed by Senators Fairley, Chair; Oemig, Vice Chair; Roach, Ranking Minority Member; Benton, McDermott, Pridemore and Swecker.
Staff: Edward Redmond (786-7471)
Background: County auditors are required to send each absentee voter (voter) a ballot, security envelope, and larger return envelope. Voters must print their name and address on the return envelope and sign a declaration that they are qualified to vote. The return envelopes must have a secrecy flap that voters may seal to cover their signature and optional telephone number.
Summary of Bill (Recommended Amendments): Secrecy flaps are not required for return envelopes. The return envelopes may provide secrecy for the voter's signature and optional telephone number.
EFFECT OF CHANGES MADE BY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS COMMITTEE (Recommended Amendments): Updates an expired statute. Adds an emergency clause.
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 on Original Bill: PRO: The committee did pass the Senate companion of this bill. This bill is a cost saving measure for the counties. Snohomish County, for example, would realize $22,000 in savings annually, and King County would realize $50,000 in savings annually.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Carolyn Weikel, Snohomish County Washington State Auditors Association.