The bill amends Washington state election law to strengthen regulations on foreign national participation in elections. It requires candidates and political committees to obtain certifications from contributors, ensuring that contributions are not financed by foreign nationals and that these individuals are not involved in decision-making regarding the contributions. Contributions exceeding $6,000, adjusted for inflation, must be reported, and these certifications must be maintained for a minimum of three years. Additionally, out-of-state political committees making expenditures in Washington are also subject to these certification requirements.

The legislation further establishes reporting standards for independent expenditures and political advertising, mandating that sponsors certify their expenditures are not financed by foreign nationals. The reporting threshold for independent expenditures is similarly set at $6,000, adjusted for inflation, and sponsors must file special reports within 24 hours of publication if their advertising meets certain financial criteria. The bill also introduces new requirements for reporting electioneering communications, including detailed information about the source of funds and certifications regarding foreign financing. All reports must be submitted electronically, with exceptions allowed for cases where electronic filing is not feasible, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in campaign financing.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 29B.25.100, 29B.25.110, 29B.25.120, 29B.25.130, 29B.25.140, 29B.25.150
Substitute bill: 29B.40.060, 29B.25.100, 29B.25.110, 29B.25.120, 29B.25.130, 29B.25.140, 29B.25.150