This bill amends various sections of Washington's campaign finance laws to improve the reporting schedule for campaign finance expenditures. A significant change is the updated definition of "participate," which now explicitly includes making expenditures in support of or opposition to ballot propositions. Political committees are now required to submit an annual statement by January 1st detailing their expected participation in election campaigns for the year, including information about candidates and ballot propositions they support or oppose. Additionally, continuing political committees must file monthly reports instead of only when contributions or expenditures exceed a certain threshold, and new deadlines for reporting contributions and expenditures are established, particularly in the lead-up to elections.

The bill also introduces amendments related to the inspection and reporting of financial records by treasurers and political committees. It requires individuals inspecting financial records to present photo identification and allows treasurers to deny access without an appointment or proper ID. Furthermore, it mandates that copies of reports be available for public inspection by appointment and sets a minimum preservation period for financial records at five years. The bill clarifies certification requirements for reports filed by candidates and treasurers, permits the submission of amended reports under specific conditions, and outlines the process for political committees to dissolve, including final report requirements. Provisions for incidental committees regarding reporting requirements and exceptions for certain contributions and expenditures are also included.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 29B.10.240, 29B.10.390, 29B.25.020, 29B.25.070, 29B.25.090, 29B.25.100