Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Government Operations & Elections Committee

HB 2263

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: Naming the chair and vice chair of state and county political committees.

Sponsors: Representatives MacEwen, Orwall, Ryu and S. Hunt.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the state committee and county central committees to elect at least one female for the chair or vice chair positions.

Hearing Date: 1/22/14

Staff: Amanda Ondrick (786-7296); and Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

The state committee of each major political party consists of one committeeman and one committeewoman from each county elected by the county central committee. The chair and vice chair must be of opposite sexes. The state committee meets in January of each odd numbered year to elect the chair, vice chair, and other officers and to adopt bylaws, rules, and regulations.

The county central committee of each major political party consists of the precinct committee officers of the party from the several voting precincts of the county. Following the general election held in even-numbered years, this committee convenes for the purpose of organization. At organizational meetings, the committee elects a chair and vice chair of opposite sexes.

Summary of Bill:

When a state committee or county central committee elects a chair and vice chair, at least one of those positions must be filled by a female.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.