SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6277
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 Reported by Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Security, January 28, 2016
Title: An act relating to the presidential primary.
Brief Description: Modifying the presidential primary date.
Sponsors: Senators Roach and Fain.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Security: 1/19/16, 1/28/16 [DP, DNP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & SECURITY |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Roach, Chair; Benton, Vice Chair; Pearson, Vice Chair; Dansel.
Minority Report: Do not pass.
Signed by Senators Habib and McCoy.
Staff: Samuel Brown (786-7470)
Background: Following the 1988 presidential election, an issue with the process for selecting delegates to the national political party conventions at which presidential candidates are nominated prompted an initiative which was adopted by the Legislature establishing a presidential primary election. The presidential primary election is held on the fourth Tuesday in May. Presidential primaries were held in 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2008. The 2004 and 2012 presidential primaries were cancelled.
Summary of Bill: The presidential primary election is moved to the second Tuesday in March.
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.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Changing the date will secure a stronger voice for our voters in the selection of presidential candidates.
Persons Testifying: PRO: David Elliott, Office of the Secretary of State.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.