Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 2204
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: Extending the time period for voter registration.
Sponsors: Representatives Fitzgibbon, Billig, Hudgins, Hunt, Miloscia, Goodman, Hansen, Carlyle, Orwall, Kagi, Pedersen, Ormsby, Reykdal, Appleton, Jinkins, Stanford, Ladenburg, Pollet, Hasegawa, Maxwell, Darneille, Upthegrove and Kenney.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/12/12
Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).
Background:
"Same day registration" laws allow a person to participate in an election as long as he or she registers to vote on the day of that election. Nine states have enacted same day registration laws: Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Washington law requires that in order to participate in any election, a person must register by submitting an application no later than 29 days before the day of the election or register in person at the county auditor's office no later than 8 days before the election.
Summary of Bill:
Any person not registered to vote may participate in an election if he or she submits an online application no later than 8 days before the day of the election, or registers in person at the county auditor's office, or other location designated by the county auditor, no later than 5 p.m. on the day of the election.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.