Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Government Operations & Elections Committee |
HB 1474
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: Giving general election voters the power to choose between the top two candidates for nonpartisan offices.
Sponsors: Representatives Pedersen, Rodne, Goodman, Buys, Hunt, Hunter, Hudgins, Carlyle, Fey and Pollet.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/13/13
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
Election law stipulates that the names of the top two candidates in a primary appear on the general election ballot. An exception exists for the offices of justice of the Washington Supreme Court, judge of the court of appeals, judge of the superior court, and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). In those races, if a candidate receives a majority of the votes for that office in the primary, only his or her name will appear on the general election ballot.
Summary of Bill:
The exception that only a candidate for judicial office or OSPI office that receives a majority of the votes in a primary may appear on the general election ballot is removed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 11, 2013.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.