SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5081
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 of January 14, 2011
Title: An act relating to making the office of the county auditor a nonpartisan office.
Brief Description: Making the office of the county auditor a nonpartisan office.
Sponsors: Senators Pridemore, Swecker, Shin, Sheldon and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 1/17/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
Background: Partisan office means a public office for which a candidate may indicate a political party preference.
The following elective offices are partisan:
United States Senate;
United States House of Representatives;
state legislative offices; and
county offices.
The following elective offices are non-partisan:
the Superintendent of Public Instructions;
state judicial offices; and
county judicial offices, as well as any county offices declared non-partisan by home rule charter.
The county auditor records deeds and other written instruments. The auditor is also required to charge fees for services and to act as clerk for the board of county commissioners. The county auditor is authorized to copy, preserve, and index documents filed with the county.
Other duties of the auditor include:
monitoring the financial condition and operations of the county, and other public entities within the county;
recording the county treasurer's reports regarding county receipts and disbursements;
filing yearly reports with the state auditor regarding state funds held by the county;
complying with procedural requirements regarding processing and record keeping related to warrants issued out of funds controlled by a county.
Summary of Bill: The office of the county auditor is non-partisan.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.