The bill revises the reporting timeline for campaign contributions and expenditures in Washington State, adjusting the filing intervals for candidates and political committees. Key changes include moving the reporting deadlines from the twenty-first to the twentieth day and from the seventh to the sixth day before an election. Additionally, reports must now reflect contributions and expenditures as of the end of two business days prior to the report date, rather than one. The bill also requires incidental committees to report any election campaign expenditures and the sources of significant payments when filing their statement of organization.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws regarding independent expenditures, focusing on the reporting requirements for individuals and organizations making such expenditures. The reporting deadlines have been adjusted similarly, with the 21st and 7th days before an election now changed to the 20th and 6th days, respectively. The timeframe for reporting independent expenditures has also been modified to two business days before the report is due. The bill clarifies the definition of "independent expenditure" and mandates necessary disclosures in the reports. Additionally, it 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 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