Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government Committee

HB 1143

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: Allowing voters to return a voted ballot and signed declaration by fax or email.

Sponsors: Representatives S. Hunt, Reykdal, Bergquist, Appleton, Dunshee, Orwall, Tarleton, Robinson, Gregerson, Ormsby, Riccelli, Ryu, Springer, Jinkins, Walkinshaw and Pollet.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Allows voters to return a voted ballot and signed declaration by fax or email.

  • Removes the requirement that the original ballot and the signed declaration be returned to the county auditor before the date of certification in order for the ballot to be counted.

Hearing Date: 1/27/15

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

Overseas and service voters may return a voted ballot and the signed declaration by fax or email. As long as the ballot is returned by 8 p.m. on the day of the primary or election, the ballot will be counted. Other voters also may return a voted ballot and the signed declaration by fax or email. However, the ballot would not be counted unless the hard copy of the ballot and declaration is received by the county auditor before the date of certification.

Summary of Bill:

Any voter may return the signed declaration and voted ballot by fax or email. The requirement that the original ballot and declaration be returned before the date of certification in order to be counted is removed.

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.