Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
State Government Committee

HB 1721

Brief Description:  Directing a state voters' pamphlet for primaries.

Sponsors:  Representatives Romero, McMorris, Ogden and Schual‑Berke; by request of Secretary of State.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Requires the Secretary of State to print and distribute a voters= pamphlet for primary elections that include a statewide measure or office.

Hearing Date:  2/14/01

Staff:  Catherine Blinn (786‑7114).

Background: 

The Secretary of State is required to print and distribute a voters' pamphlet whenever a statewide measure or office appears on a general election ballot.  The pamphlet must include candidate statements as well as information on ballot measures, campaigns, public disclosure requirements, political parties, precinct committee officers, and the caucus and convention process for presidential elections.  The pamphlet must be distributed to households, libraries, and other appropriate locations, and may be made available in electronic form.

Summary of Bill: 

The Secretary of State is required to print and distribute a voters' pamphlet for both primary and general elections that involve a statewide measure or office.

Rulemaking Authority:  No express authority.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

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