The bill amends the reporting timeline for campaign contributions and expenditures in Washington State by updating several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). It changes the reporting deadlines from the twenty-first and seventh days before an election to the twentieth and sixth days, respectively. Additionally, it requires that reports reflect contributions and expenditures as of the end of two business days before the report date, rather than one. The bill also introduces new requirements for incidental committees to report on expenditures and the sources of significant payments upon filing their statement of organization, while outlining the responsibilities of treasurers to maintain accurate financial records and ensure public access to these records.

Moreover, the bill revises the reporting requirements for independent expenditures, adjusting the deadlines similarly and extending the timeframe for reporting from one business day to two. It clarifies the definition of "independent expenditure" and mandates disclosures, including the names and addresses of recipients of expenditures over fifty dollars, along with a statement confirming that foreign nationals are not involved in financing or decision-making regarding the expenditures. The bill also establishes expiration dates for certain provisions, with sections 1 and 3 set to expire on January 1, 2026, while sections 2 and 4 will take effect on the same date, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in campaign financing.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 42.17A.235, 29B.25.090
Substitute Bill: 42.17A.235, 29B.25.090, 42.17A.255, 29B.25.120