The bill seeks to enhance protections against voter suppression and vote dilution under the Washington Voting Rights Act by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It introduces new definitions for key terms such as "election policy or practice," "electoral system," and "polarized voting," which will aid in the law's application. The legislation prohibits political subdivisions from enacting election policies that disproportionately burden protected classes and requires them to collaborate with affected parties to address any violations. It also emphasizes public engagement in the electoral process, particularly for communities with limited English proficiency, and establishes a framework for voters to challenge discriminatory practices.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the applicability of certain provisions, stating that they do not apply to cities and towns with populations under one thousand or to school districts with fewer than two hundred fifty K-12 full-time equivalent enrollments. It repeals RCW 29A.92.020, which relates to election methods and equal opportunity for protected classes, indicating a shift towards streamlining regulations for smaller municipalities and school districts. The legislation also outlines the process for filing actions related to alleged violations, allows for joint actions by coalitions of protected classes, and includes provisions for awarding attorneys' fees to prevailing plaintiffs while specifying conditions for defendants to recover costs.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 29A.92.005, 29A.92.010, 29A.92.030, 29A.92.040, 29A.92.050, 29A.76.010, 29A.92.070, 29A.92.080, 29A.92.090, 29A.92.100, 29A.92.110, 29A.92.130, 29A.92.020
Substitute Bill: 29A.92.005, 29A.92.010, 29A.92.030, 29A.92.040, 29A.92.050, 29A.76.010, 29A.92.070, 29A.92.080, 29A.92.090, 29A.92.100, 29A.92.110, 29A.92.115, 29A.92.120, 4.84.185, 29A.92.020