VETO MESSAGE ON 2SHB 2016

March 25, 2010

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,
The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Sections 309, 412 and 415 Second Substitute House Bill 2016 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to campaign contribution and disclosure laws."

This bill reorganizes and recodifies chapter 42.17 RCW, provides for the listing of the controlling entity on independent expenditures if the sponsor is a political committee, and allows bona fide political parties to use exempt funds for independent expenditures and electioneering communications.

Two bills delivered to me by the Legislature amend the same sections of existing laws in inconsistent ways. Section 309 (amending RCW 42.17.450), Section 412 (amending RCW 42.17.100), and Section 415 (amending RCW 42.17.550) amend the same sections of existing law that are amended or repealed in Senate Bill 6243 which will be signed today. These sections are technical changes with clarifying language which can be vetoed without affecting the policy changes in Second Substitute House Bill 2016.

For these reasons, I have vetoed Sections 309, 412 and 415 of Second Substitute House Bill 2016.

With the exception of Sections 309, 412 and 415, Second Substitute House Bill 2016 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Christine Gregoire
Governor