Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 2174
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: Regulating when incumbents may appear in public service announcements while campaigning for office.
Sponsors: Representatives Finn, Ladenburg and Hunt.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/16/12
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
State and municipal elected officials are prohibited from making public service announcements beginning January 1 of a reelection year through the general election, or until the official is no longer a candidate. If the elected official does not control the broadcast, showing, or distribution of the announcement, he or she must contractually limit the use of the public service announcement. The restrictions do not apply to public service announcements that are part of the regular duties of the officer that only mention or visually display the office or office seal or logo, and do not mention or visually display the name of the elected official in the announcement.
Summary of Bill:
The time period regarding the prohibition from speaking or appearing in a public service announcements is changed. The prohibition begins at the time the official or officer files a statement of organization with the Public Disclosure Commission, rather than January 1.
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.