SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6127

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.

Title: An act relating to voluntary salary reduction for elected officials.

Brief Description: Providing voluntary salary reduction for elected officials.

Sponsors: Senators Fain, Hill, Dammeier and Litzow.

Committee Activity: Ways & Means:

SENATE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS

Staff: Steve Jones (786-7440)

Background: Pursuant to an amendment to the state Constitution adopted in 1986, the Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials establishes the annual salary of members of the Legislature, elected officials of the executive branch, and judges of the state Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Superior Courts, and District Courts.

During the 2011-2013 fiscal biennium, the Legislature reduced the salaries of many state employees by 3 percent for the duration of the biennium. While this action did not apply to elected officials' salaries established under the constitutional procedure, the Legislature authorized elected officials of the executive branch to voluntarily reduce their salaries by 3 percent during the biennium.

Summary of Bill: Any state elected official may voluntarily reduce his or her salary. The elected official may also direct that the amount of the salary reduction be contributed to a charitable organization that is registered with the Secretary of State under state laws regulating charities.

The salary reduction or charitable contribution must be made on a pretax basis to the maximum extent allowed under federal tax laws.

The salary reduction and charitable contribution continues in effect until the elected official requests that it be discontinued.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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