Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Government Operations & Elections Committee |
HB 1267
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: Extending the time period for voter registration.
Sponsors: Representatives Fitzgibbon, Hunt, Stanford, Appleton, Ryu, Van De Wege, Lytton, Tharinger, Hudgins, Liias, Upthegrove, Farrell, Cody, Sawyer, Jinkins, Roberts, Reykdal, Maxwell, Riccelli, Santos, Pollet, Bergquist, Hansen and Ormsby.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/6/13
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
"Same day registration" laws allow a person to participate in an election as long as he or she registers to vote on the day of that election. Nine states have enacted same day registration laws: Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Washington law requires that in order to participate in any election, a person must register by submitting an application no later than 29 days before the day of the election or register in person at the county auditor's office no later than 8 days before the election.
Summary of Bill:
Any person not registered to vote may participate in an election if he or she submits an online application no later than 8 days before the day of the election, or registers in person at the county auditor's office, or other location designated by the county auditor, no later than 5 p.m. on the day of the election.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 2/6/13.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.