SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5527

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 February 4, 2015

Title: An act relating to extending the time period for voter registration.

Brief Description: Concerning voter registration.

Sponsors: Senators Liias, Roach, Billig, McCoy, Habib, Darneille, Mullet and Hasegawa.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Security: 2/05/15.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & SECURITY

Staff: Samuel Brown (786-7470)

Background: To register to vote, a person must submit an application via mail or an online registration no later than 29 days before the day of the next primary, special, or general election, or in person at the county auditor's office no later than eight days before the election.

A person may update voter registration at least 29 days before an election for the change to be effective for that election. A voter who does not transfer the voter's residential information by that deadline may still vote according to the voter's previous address.

Summary of Bill: The deadlines for registration to participate in an upcoming primary, special, or general election are changed as follows:

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 30, 2015.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.