SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5268
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. |
As of January 25, 2013
Title: An act relating to extending the time period for voter registration.
Brief Description: Extending the time period for voter registration.
Sponsors: Senators Billig, Hasegawa, Darneille, Nelson, Ranker, Frockt, Murray, Rolfes, Kohl-Welles, Schlicher, Shin, Conway and Kline.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Governmental Operations:
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS |
Staff: Samuel Brown (786-7470)
Background: 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 eight days before the election. Same-day registration laws allow a person to participate in an election as long as the person registers to vote on the day of that election. Ten states have enacted same-day registration laws including: California, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The District of Columbia has enacted a same-day registration law as well.
Summary of Bill: Any person not registered to vote may participate in an election if the person submits an online application no later than eight 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 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.