FINAL BILL REPORT
HB 1474
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. |
C 143 L 13
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Giving general election voters the power to choose between the top two candidates for nonpartisan offices.
Sponsors: Representatives Pedersen, Rodne, Goodman, Buys, Hunt, Hunter, Hudgins, Carlyle, Fey and Pollet.
House Committee on Government Operations & Elections
Senate Committee on Governmental Operations
Senate Committee on Ways & Means
Background:
Election law stipulates that the two candidates who receive the most votes in the primary must advance to the general election. An exception exists for the offices of justice of the Washington Supreme Court, judge of the court of appeals, judge of the superior court, and the Superintendent of Public Instruction. In those races, if a candidate receives a majority of the votes in the primary, only his or her name may appear on the general election ballot. The effect of this provision is that, in many cases, those offices are essentially elected at the primary.
Summary:
The provision of law that allows only the name of a candidate for a judicial office or the Superintendent of Public Instruction who receives a majority of votes in the primary to appear on the general election ballot is removed. The names of the two candidates who receive the most votes in the primary for these offices must appear on the general election ballot.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 97 | 0 | |
Senate | 37 | 9 | (Senate amended) |
House | 95 | 0 | (House concurred) |
Effective: | July 28, 2013 |