Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

State Government Committee

HB 1548

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: Increasing the percentage of votes required in order for a write-in candidate to appear on the general election ballot.

Sponsors: Representatives Appleton, Pike and Condotta.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires a candidate to receive at least 5 percent of the votes in a primary in order to qualify to appear on the general election ballot.

Hearing Date: 1/27/15

Staff: Sean Flynn (786-7124).

Background:

The top two candidates from a primary election are qualified to advance to the general election. Only the names of the top two candidates may appear on a general election ballot, in the order of votes received. However, a candidate among the top two candidates must receive at least 1 percent of the total votes cast in the primary in order to appear on the general election ballot.

Summary of Bill:

A candidate among the top two primary candidates must receive at least 5 percent of the total votes cast in order to qualify to have his or her name appear on the general election ballot.

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.