BILL REQ. #:  S-4226.1 

READ FIRST TIME 01/30/12.   

     AN ACT Relating to filing of business forms with state agencies; and adding a new section to chapter 43.17 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 43.17 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) In any instance where a state agency requires that a business submit a document, form, or payment of a fee in paper format, the state agency must provide the business an option to submit such requirement electronically.
     (2) A business may authorize a second party to meet the requirements imposed by a state agency under subsection (1) of this section on its behalf.
     (3) The director of a state agency or the director's designee may exempt a document, form, or payment of a fee from the requirements of this section if:
     (a)(i) There is a legal requirement for such materials to be submitted in paper format; or
     (ii) It is not feasible for such materials to be submitted electronically; and
     (b) Within existing resources, the director or the director's designee establishes and maintains a process to notify the public regarding such exemptions.