reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.200 - Security breach identification and reporting.

RCW 29A.12.200
Security breach identification and reporting.
(1) The secretary of state must annually consult with the Washington state fusion center, state chief information officer, and each county auditor to identify instances of security breaches of election systems or election data.
(2) To the extent possible, the secretary of state must identify whether the source of a security breach, if any, is a foreign entity, domestic entity, or both.
(3) By December 31st of each year, the secretary of state must submit a report to the governor, state chief information officer, Washington state fusion center, and the chairs and ranking members of the appropriate legislative committees from the senate and house of representatives that includes information on any instances of security breaches identified under subsection (1) of this section and options to increase the security of the election systems and election data, and to prevent future security breaches. The report, and any related material, data, or information provided pursuant to subsection (1) of this section or used to assemble the report, may only be distributed to, or otherwise shared with, the individuals specifically mentioned in this subsection (3).
(4) For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Foreign entity" means an entity that is not organized or formed under the laws of the United States, or a person who is not domiciled in the United States or a citizen of the United States.
(b) "Security breach" means a breach of the election system or associated data where the system or associated data has been penetrated, accessed, or manipulated by an unauthorized person.
[ 2020 c 101 § 2.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2020 c 101: "The legislature finds that public confidence in state elections systems and election data are of paramount consideration to the integrity of the voting process. The legislature also finds that recent events have revealed an intentional and persistent effort by foreign entities to influence election systems and other cybernetworks. Therefore, the legislature intends to review the state's electoral systems and processes and take appropriate measures to identify whether foreign entities were responsible for the intrusions." [ 2020 c 101 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.16 - Precincts. › 29A.16.050 - Precincts—Restrictions on precinct boundaries—Designated by number.

RCW 29A.16.050
Precincts—Restrictions on precinct boundaries—Designated by number.
(1) Every voting precinct must be wholly within a single congressional district, a single legislative district, a single district of a county legislative authority, and, if applicable, a single city.
(2) Every voting precinct shall be composed, as nearly as practicable, of contiguous and compact areas.
(3) Except as provided in this subsection, changes to the boundaries of any precinct shall follow visible, physical features delineated on the most current maps provided by the United States census bureau. A change need not follow such visible, physical features if (a) it is necessitated by an annexation or incorporation and the proposed precinct boundary is identical to an exterior boundary of the annexed or incorporated area which does not follow a visible, physical feature; or (b) doing so would substantially impair election administration in the involved area.
(4) After a change to precinct boundaries is adopted by the county legislative authority, if the change does not follow visible physical features, the county auditor shall send to the secretary of state an electronic or paper copy of the description, a map or maps of the changes, and a statement of the applicable exception under subsection (3) of this section. For boundary changes made pursuant to subsection (3)(b) of this section, the auditor shall include a statement of the reasons why following visible, physical features would have substantially impaired election administration.
(5) Every voting precinct within each county shall be designated by number for the purpose of preparation of maps and the tabulation of population for apportionment purposes. These precincts may be identified with names or other numbers for other election purposes.
(6) After a change to precinct boundaries in a city or town, the county auditor shall send one copy of the map or maps delineating the new precinct boundaries within that city or town to the city or town clerk.
(7) Precinct maps are public records and shall be available for inspection by the public during normal office hours in the offices where they are kept. Copies shall be made available to the public for a fee necessary to cover the cost of reproduction.
[ 2003 c 111 § 405; 1999 c 298 § 1; 1989 c 278 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 128 § 2; 1965 c 9 § 29.04.050. Prior: 1921 c 178 § 1, part; 1915 c 11 § 1, part; 1907 c 130 § 1, part; 1889 p 402 § 7, part; Code 1881 § 3067, part; 1865 p 30 § 1, part; RRS § 5171, part. Formerly RCW 29.04.050.]
NOTES:
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 128: See note following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.16 - Precincts. › 29A.16.070 - Precincts—Boundary changes—Registration transfer.

RCW 29A.16.070
Precincts—Boundary changes—Registration transfer.
If the boundaries of any city, township, or rural precinct are changed in the manner provided by law, the county auditor shall update the registration records of every registered voter whose place of residence is affected thereby. It shall not be necessary for any registered voter whose registration has been changed from one precinct to another, by a change of boundary, to apply to the county auditor for a transfer of registration. The county auditor shall mail a notice to each registered voter.
[ 2013 c 11 § 78; 2003 c 111 § 1903; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 27; 1965 c 9 § 29.10.060. Prior: 1933 c 1 § 17; RRS § 5114-17. Formerly RCW 29A.76.030, 29.10.060.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.010 - Officials to designate position numbers, when—Effect.

RCW 29A.24.010
Officials to designate position numbers, when—Effect.
Not less than thirty days before the first day for filing declarations of candidacy under RCW 29A.24.050 for legislative, judicial, county, city, town, or district office, where more than one position with the same name, district number, or title will be voted upon at the succeeding election, the filing officer shall designate the positions to be filled by number.
The positions so designated shall be dealt with as separate offices for all election purposes. With the exception of the office of justice of the supreme court, the position numbers shall be assigned, whenever possible, to reflect the position numbers that were used to designate the same positions at the last full-term election for those offices.
[ 2003 c 111 § 601. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 79; 1965 c 52 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.15.130, 29.18.015.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.020 - Designation of short terms, full terms, and unexpired terms—Filing declarations—Election to both short and full terms.

RCW 29A.24.020
Designation of short terms, full terms, and unexpired terms—Filing declarations—Election to both short and full terms.
If at the same election there are short terms or full terms and unexpired terms of office to be filled, the filing officer shall distinguish them and designate the short term, the full term, and the unexpired term, as such, or by use of the words "short term," "unexpired two year term," or "four year term," as the case may be.
When both a short term and a full term for the same position are scheduled to be voted upon, or when a short term is created after the close of the filing period, a single declaration of candidacy accompanied by a single filing fee shall be construed as a filing for both the short term and the full term and the name of such candidate shall appear upon the ballot for the position sought with the designation "short term and full term." The candidate elected to both such terms shall be sworn into and assume office for the short term as soon as the election returns have been certified and shall again be sworn into office for the full term.
[ 2013 c 11 § 30; 2003 c 111 § 602. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 92; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 120 § 4; 1965 c 9 § 29.21.140; prior: (i) 1927 c 155 § 1, part; 1925 ex.s. c 68 § 1, part; 1921 c 116 § 1, part; 1919 c 85 § 1, part; 1911 c 101 § 1, part; 1909 c 82 § 11, part; 1907 c 209 § 38, part; RRS § 5212, part. (ii) 1933 c 85 § 1, part; RRS § 5213-1, part. Formerly RCW 29.15.140, 29.21.140.]
NOTES:
Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 120: See note following RCW 29A.52.210.
Term of person elected to fill vacancy: RCW 42.12.030.
Vacancies in public office, how filled: RCW 42.12.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.031 - Declaration of candidacy.

RCW 29A.24.031
Declaration of candidacy.
A candidate who desires to have his or her name printed on the ballot for election to an office other than president of the United States, vice president of the United States, or an office for which ownership of property is a prerequisite to voting shall complete and file a declaration of candidacy. The secretary of state shall adopt, by rule, a declaration of candidacy form for the office of precinct committee officer and a separate standard form for candidates for all other offices filing under this chapter. Included on the standard form shall be:
(1) A place for the candidate to declare that he or she is a registered voter within the jurisdiction of the office for which he or she is filing, and the address at which he or she is registered;
(2) A place for the candidate to indicate the position for which he or she is filing;
(3) A place for the candidate to state a party preference, if the office is a partisan office;
(4) A place for the candidate to indicate the amount of the filing fee accompanying the declaration of candidacy or for the candidate to indicate that he or she is filing a filing fee petition in lieu of the filing fee under RCW 29A.24.091;
(5) A place for the candidate to sign the declaration of candidacy, stating that the information provided on the form is true and swearing or affirming that he or she will support the Constitution and laws of the United States and the Constitution and laws of the state of Washington.
In the case of a declaration of candidacy filed electronically, submission of the form constitutes agreement that the information provided with the filing is true, that he or she will support the Constitutions and laws of the United States and the state of Washington, and that he or she agrees to electronic payment of the filing fee established in RCW 29A.24.091.
The secretary of state may require any other information on the form he or she deems appropriate to facilitate the filing process.
[ 2013 c 11 § 31; 2004 c 271 § 158.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.040 - Declaration of candidacy—Electronic filing.

RCW 29A.24.040
Declaration of candidacy—Electronic filing.
A candidate may file a declaration of candidacy for an office by electronic means on a system specifically designed and authorized by a filing officer to accept filings.
(1) Filings that are received electronically must capture all information specified in RCW 29A.24.031 (1) through (4).
(2) Electronic filing may begin at 8:00 a.m. the first day of the filing period and continue through 5:00 p.m. the last day of the filing period.
[ 2023 c 394 § 2; 2011 c 349 § 6; 2006 c 344 § 5; 2003 c 111 § 604. Prior: 2002 c 140 § 2. Formerly RCW 29.15.044.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
Implementation—2002 c 140: "The secretary of state may take the necessary steps to ensure that this act is implemented on its effective date." [ 2002 c 140 § 5.]
Captions not law—2002 c 140: "Section captions used in this act are not part of the law." [ 2002 c 140 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.050 - Declaration of candidacy—Certain offices, when filed.

RCW 29A.24.050
Declaration of candidacy—Certain offices, when filed.
Except where otherwise provided by this title, declarations of candidacy for the following offices shall be filed between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. with the filing officer beginning the first Monday in May and ending the following Friday in the year in which the office is scheduled to be voted upon:
(1) Offices that are scheduled to be voted upon for full terms or both full terms and short terms at, or in conjunction with, a state general election; and
(2) Offices where a vacancy, other than a short term, exists that has not been filled by election and for which an election to fill the vacancy is required in conjunction with the next state general election.
This section supersedes all other statutes that provide for a different filing period for these offices.
[ 2023 c 394 § 1; 2011 c 349 § 7; 2006 c 344 § 6; 2003 c 111 § 605. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 81; 1986 c 167 § 8; 1984 c 142 § 2. Formerly RCW 29.15.020, 29.18.025.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
Severability—1986 c 167: See note following RCW 29A.16.040.
Intent—1984 c 142: "It is the intention of the legislature that this act shall provide an equitable qualifying procedure for candidates who, at the time of filing, lack sufficient assets or income to pay the filing fees otherwise required of candidates for public office." [ 1984 c 142 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.060 - Candidates' names—Nicknames.

RCW 29A.24.060
Candidates' names—Nicknames.
When filing for office, a candidate may indicate the manner in which he or she desires his or her name to be printed on the ballot. For filing purposes, a candidate may use a nickname by which he or she is commonly known as his or her first name, but the last name shall be the name under which he or she is registered to vote.
No candidate may:
(1) Use a nickname that denotes present or past occupation, including military rank;
(2) Use a nickname that denotes the candidate's position on issues or political affiliation;
(3) Use a nickname designed intentionally to mislead voters.
[ 2003 c 111 § 606; 1990 c 59 § 83. Formerly RCW 29.15.090.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.072 - Preservation of declarations of candidacy.

RCW 29A.24.072
Preservation of declarations of candidacy.
The secretary of state and each county auditor shall preserve all declarations of candidacy filed in their respective offices for six months. All declarations of candidacy must be open to public inspection.
[ 2003 c 111 § 501; 1965 c 9 § 29.27.090. Prior: 1921 c 178 § 1, part; 1915 c 11 § 1, part; 1907 c 130 § 1, part; 1889 p 402 § 7, part; Code 1881 § 3067, part; 1865 p 30 § 1, part; RRS § 5171, part. Formerly RCW 29A.20.010, 29.27.090.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.075 - Qualifications for filing, appearance on ballot.

RCW 29A.24.075
Qualifications for filing, appearance on ballot.
(1) A person filing a declaration of candidacy for an office shall, at the time of filing, be a registered voter and possess the qualifications specified by law for persons who may be elected to the office.
(2) Excluding the office of precinct committee officer or a temporary elected position such as a charter review board member or freeholder, no person may file for more than one office.
(3) The name of a candidate for an office shall not appear on a ballot for that office unless, except for judge of the superior court and as provided in RCW 3.50.057, the candidate is, at the time the candidate's declaration of candidacy is filed, properly registered to vote in the geographic area represented by the office. For the purposes of this section, each geographic area in which registered voters may cast ballots for an office is represented by that office. If a person elected to an office must be nominated from a district or similar division of the geographic area represented by the office, the name of a candidate for the office shall not appear on a primary ballot for that office unless the candidate is, at the time the candidate's declaration of candidacy is filed, properly registered to vote in that district or division. The officer with whom declarations of candidacy must be filed under this title shall review each such declaration filed regarding compliance with this subsection.
(4) The requirements of voter registration and residence within the geographic area of a district do not apply to candidates for congressional office. Qualifications for the United States congress are specified in the United States Constitution.
[ 2013 c 11 § 25; 2004 c 271 § 153. Formerly RCW 29A.20.021.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.081 - Declaration—Filing by mail.

RCW 29A.24.081
Declaration—Filing by mail.
Any candidate may mail a declaration of candidacy for an office to the filing officer. Such declarations of candidacy shall be processed by the filing officer in the following manner:
(1) Any declaration received by the filing officer by mail before the tenth business day immediately preceding the first day for candidates to file for office shall be returned to the candidate submitting it, together with a notification that the declaration of candidacy was received too early to be processed. The candidate shall then be permitted to resubmit the candidate's declaration of candidacy during the filing period.
(2) Any properly executed declaration of candidacy received by mail on or after the tenth business day immediately preceding the first day for candidates to file for office and before 5:00 p.m. on the last day of the filing period shall be included with filings made in person during the filing period.
(3) Any declaration of candidacy received by the filing officer after 5:00 p.m. on the last day for candidates to file for office shall be rejected and returned to the candidate attempting to file it.
[ 2023 c 394 § 4; 2011 c 10 § 27; 2004 c 271 § 159.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.091 - Declaration—Fees and petitions.

RCW 29A.24.091
Declaration—Fees and petitions.
(1) A filing fee of ten dollars shall accompany the declaration of candidacy for any office with a fixed annual salary of one thousand dollars or less. A filing fee equal to one percent of the annual salary of the office at the time of filing shall accompany the declaration of candidacy for any office with a fixed annual salary of more than one thousand dollars per annum. No filing fee need accompany a declaration of candidacy for precinct committee officer or any office for which compensation is on a per diem or per meeting attended basis, or any declaration of candidacy for a write-in candidate filed after the close of filing and more than eighteen days prior to a primary or election.
(2) A filing fee of twenty-five dollars shall accompany the declaration of candidacy for write-in candidates for any office with a fixed annual salary of one thousand dollars or less if filed eighteen days or less prior to a primary or election.
(3) A filing fee equal to one percent of the annual salary of the office at the time of filing shall accompany a declaration of candidacy for write-in candidates for any office with a fixed annual salary of more than one thousand dollars per annum if filed eighteen days or less prior to a primary or election.
(4) A candidate who lacks sufficient assets or income at the time of filing to pay the filing fee required by this section shall submit with the candidate's declaration of candidacy a filing fee petition. The petition shall contain not less than a number of signatures of registered voters equal to the number of dollars of the filing fee. The signatures shall be of voters registered to vote within the jurisdiction of the office for which the candidate is filing.
[ 2023 c 394 § 5; 2018 c 187 § 1; 2009 c 106 § 2; 2006 c 206 § 3; 2005 c 221 § 2; 2004 c 271 § 160.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.095 - Distribution of filing fees.

RCW 29A.24.095
Distribution of filing fees.
Fees paid when filing for office must be collected by the filing officer and distributed as follows:
(1) When the candidacy is for a statewide office, the United States senate, the United States house of representatives, or the state supreme court, the fee shall be retained by the secretary of state;
(2) When the candidacy is for a Washington state legislative, state court of appeals, or a superior court judicial office, the fees shall be distributed to the office of the county auditor or auditors whose counties comprise the district. When the district includes multiple counties, the distribution must be an equal division between the counties comprising the district;
(3) When the candidacy is for a city or town office, the county auditor shall transmit fees to the city or town clerk for deposit in the city or town treasury; and
(4) When the candidacy is for any other office, the fees shall be retained by the office of the filing officer.
[ 2023 c 394 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.101 - Filing fee petition—Form.

RCW 29A.24.101
Filing fee petition—Form.
(1) The filing fee petition authorized by RCW 29A.24.091 must be printed on sheets of uniform color and size, must include a place for each individual to sign and print his or her name and the address, city, and county at which he or she is registered to vote, and must contain no more than twenty numbered lines.
(2) The filing fee petition must be in substantially the following form:
The warning prescribed by RCW 29A.72.140; followed by:
We, the undersigned registered voters of
(the state of Washington or the political subdivision for which the nomination is made)
, hereby petition that the name of
(candidate's name)
be printed on the official primary ballot for the office of
(insert name of office)
.
[ 2013 c 11 § 32; 2006 c 206 § 4; 2004 c 271 § 114.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.111 - Petitions—Rejection—Acceptance, canvass of signatures—Judicial review.

RCW 29A.24.111
Petitions—Rejection—Acceptance, canvass of signatures—Judicial review.
Filing fee petitions may be rejected for the following reasons:
(1) The petition is not in the proper form;
(2) The petition clearly bears insufficient signatures;
(3) The petition is not accompanied by a declaration of candidacy;
(4) The time within which the petition and the declaration of candidacy could have been filed has expired.
If the petition is accepted, the officer with whom it is filed shall canvass the signatures contained on it and shall reject the signatures of those persons who are not registered voters and the signatures of those persons who are not registered to vote within the jurisdiction of the office for which the filing fee petition is filed. He or she shall additionally reject any signature that appears on the filing fee petitions of two or more candidates for the same office and shall also reject, each time it appears, the name of any person who signs the same petition more than once.
If the officer with whom the petition is filed refuses to accept the petition or refuses to certify the petition as bearing sufficient valid signatures, the person filing the petition may appeal that action to the superior court. The application for judicial review shall take precedence over other cases and matters and shall be speedily heard and determined.
[ 2006 c 206 § 5; 2004 c 271 § 161.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.131 - Withdrawal of candidacy.

RCW 29A.24.131
Withdrawal of candidacy.
A candidate may withdraw the candidate's declaration of candidacy at any time before 5:00 p.m. on the Monday following the last day for candidates to file under RCW 29A.24.050 by filing, with the officer with whom the declaration of candidacy was filed, a signed request that the candidate's name not be printed on the ballot. There shall be no withdrawal period for declarations of candidacy filed during special filing periods held under this title. No filing fee may be refunded to any candidate who withdraws under this section. Notice of the deadline for withdrawal of candidacy and that the filing fee is not refundable shall be given to each candidate at the time the candidate files.
[ 2023 c 394 § 7; 2011 c 349 § 8; 2004 c 271 § 115.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.141 - Void in candidacy.

RCW 29A.24.141
Void in candidacy.
A void in candidacy occurs when an election has been scheduled and no valid declaration of candidacy has been filed for the position or all persons filing such valid declarations of candidacy have died or been disqualified.
[ 2011 c 349 § 9; 2004 c 271 § 162.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.171 - Vacancies in office.

RCW 29A.24.171
Vacancies in office.
(1) If, prior to the first day of the regular filing period, a vacancy occurs in an office that is not scheduled to appear on the general election ballot, leaving an unexpired term for which a successor must be elected at the next general election, filings for that office shall be accepted during the regular filing period. The filing officer shall provide notice of the vacancy and filing period to newspapers, radio, and television in the county, and online. The position shall appear on the primary and general election ballots unless no primary is required or unless a candidate for superior court judge is entitled to a certificate of election pursuant to Article 4 [IV], section 29 of the state Constitution.
(2) If, on the first day of the regular filing period or later, a vacancy occurs in an office that is not scheduled to appear on the general election ballot, leaving an unexpired term, the election of the successor shall occur at the next succeeding general election that the office is allowed by law to have an election.
[ 2011 c 349 § 10; 2006 c 344 § 7; 2004 c 271 § 165.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349 §§ 10-12, 27, 28, and 30: "Sections 10 through 12, 27, 28, and 30 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and take effect immediately [May 16, 2011]." [ 2011 c 349 § 34.]
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.181 - Regular filing period—Voids in candidacy.

RCW 29A.24.181
Regular filing period—Voids in candidacy.
(1) If a void in candidacy occurs following the regular filing period and deadline to withdraw, but prior to the day of the primary, filings for that office shall be reopened for a period of three normal business days, such three-day period to be fixed by the filing officer. The filing officer shall provide notice of the special filing period to newspapers, radio, and television in the county, and online. The candidate receiving a plurality of the votes cast for that office in the general election is deemed elected.
(2) This section does not apply to voids in candidacy in the office of precinct committee officer, which are filled by appointment pursuant to *RCW 29A.28.071.
[ 2011 c 349 § 11; 2006 c 344 § 8; 2004 c 271 § 166.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 29A.28.071 was recodified as RCW 29A.80.031 pursuant to 2013 c 11 § 93.
Effective date—2011 c 349 §§ 10-12, 27, 28, and 30: See note following RCW 29A.24.171.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.191 - Scheduled election lapses, when.

RCW 29A.24.191
Scheduled election lapses, when.
A scheduled election shall be lapsed, the office deemed stricken from the ballot, no purported write-in votes counted, and no candidate certified as elected, when a void in candidacy occurs following the special three-day filing period required by RCW 29A.24.181.
[ 2011 c 349 § 12; 2006 c 344 § 9; 2004 c 271 § 167.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349 §§ 10-12, 27, 28, and 30: See note following RCW 29A.24.171.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.201 - Lapse of election when no filing for single positions—Effect.

RCW 29A.24.201
Lapse of election when no filing for single positions—Effect.
If after both the normal filing period and special three-day filing period as provided by RCW 29A.24.171 and 29A.24.181 have passed, no candidate has filed for any single city, town, or district position to be filled, the election for such position shall be deemed lapsed, the office deemed stricken from the ballot and no write-in votes counted. In such instance, the incumbent occupying such position shall remain in office and continue to serve until a successor is elected at the next election when such positions are voted upon.
[ 2004 c 271 § 190.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.220 - Void in candidacy for water-sewer districts—Fewer than one hundred residents.

RCW 29A.24.220
Void in candidacy for water-sewer districts—Fewer than one hundred residents.
A void in candidacy in a water-sewer district with fewer than one hundred residents may be filled in accordance with RCW 57.12.035.
[ 2007 c 383 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.24 - Filing for Office. › 29A.24.320 - Write-in candidates—Notice to auditors, ballot counters.

RCW 29A.24.320
Write-in candidates—Notice to auditors, ballot counters.
The secretary of state shall notify each county auditor of any declarations filed with the secretary under RCW 29A.24.311 for offices appearing on the ballot in that county. The county auditor shall ensure that those persons charged with counting the ballots for a primary or election are notified of all valid write-in candidates before the tabulation of those ballots.
[ 2013 c 11 § 33; 2003 c 111 § 623. Prior: 1988 c 181 § 2. Formerly RCW 29.04.190.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.28 - Vacancies. › 29A.28.030 - United States senate.

RCW 29A.28.030
United States senate.
When a vacancy occurs in the representation of this state in the senate of the United States, the governor shall make a temporary appointment to that office until the people fill the vacancy by election as provided in this chapter.
[ 2003 c 111 § 703. Prior: 1985 c 45 § 3; 1965 c 9 § 29.68.070; prior: 1921 c 33 § 1; RRS § 3798. Formerly RCW 29.68.070.]
NOTES:
Legislative intent—1985 c 45: See note following RCW 29A.04.420.
Special procedures for primary for United States senate vacancy in 1983: Chapter 1, Laws of 1983 3rd ex. sess. (uncodified).
Vacancies in public office, how caused: RCW 42.12.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.28 - Vacancies. › 29A.28.041 - Congress—Special election.

RCW 29A.28.041
Congress—Special election.
(1) Whenever a vacancy occurs in the United States house of representatives or the United States senate from this state, the governor shall order a special election to fill the vacancy.
(2) Within ten days of such vacancy occurring, he or she shall issue a writ of election fixing a date for the primary at least seventy days after issuance of the writ, and fixing a date for the election at least seventy days after the date of the primary. If the vacancy is in the office of United States representative, the writ of election shall specify the congressional district that is vacant.
(3) If the vacancy occurs less than eight months before a general election and before the close of the filing period for that general election, the special primary and special vacancy election must be held in concert with the state primary and general election in that year.
(4) If the vacancy occurs on or after the first day for filing under RCW 29A.24.050 and on or before the close of the filing period, a special filing period of three normal business days shall be fixed and notice thereof given to all media, including press, radio, and television within the area in which the vacancy election is to be held, to the end that, insofar as possible, all interested persons will be aware of such filing period.
(5) If the vacancy occurs later than the close of the filing period, a special primary and vacancy election to fill the position shall be held after the next general election but, in any event, no later than the ninetieth day following the general election.
[ 2013 c 11 § 34; 2011 c 349 § 14; 2006 c 344 § 12; 2004 c 271 § 118.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.28 - Vacancies. › 29A.28.050 - Congress—Notices of special primary and election.

RCW 29A.28.050
Congress—Notices of special primary and election.
After calling a special primary and special vacancy election to fill a vacancy in the United States house of representatives or the United States senate from this state, the governor shall immediately notify the secretary of state who shall, in turn, immediately notify the county auditor of each county wholly or partly within which the vacancy exists.
Each county auditor shall publish notices of the special primary and the special vacancy election at least once in any legal newspaper published in the county, as provided by RCW 29A.52.355.
[ 2013 c 11 § 35; 2003 c 111 § 705; 1985 c 45 § 5; 1973 2nd ex.s. c 36 § 5; 1965 c 9 § 29.68.100. Prior: 1909 ex.s. c 25 § 2, part; RRS § 3800, part. Formerly RCW 29.68.100.]
NOTES:
Legislative intent—1985 c 45: See note following RCW 29A.04.420.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.28 - Vacancies. › 29A.28.061 - Congress—General, primary election laws to apply—Time deadlines, modifications.

RCW 29A.28.061
Congress—General, primary election laws to apply—Time deadlines, modifications.
The general election laws and laws relating to partisan primaries shall apply to the special primaries and vacancy elections provided for in chapter 29A.28 RCW to the extent that they are not inconsistent with the provisions of these sections. Statutory time deadlines relating to availability of ballots, certification, canvassing, and related procedures that cannot be met in a timely fashion may be modified for the purposes of a specific primary or vacancy election under this chapter by the secretary of state through emergency rules adopted under RCW 29A.04.611.
[ 2013 c 11 § 36; 2011 c 10 § 28; 2004 c 271 § 119.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.010 - Printing and distribution.

RCW 29A.32.010
Printing and distribution.
The secretary of state shall, whenever at least one statewide measure or office is scheduled to appear on the general election ballot, print and distribute a voters' pamphlet.
The secretary of state shall distribute the voters' pamphlet to each household in the state, to public libraries, and to any other locations he or she deems appropriate. The secretary of state shall also produce taped or Braille transcripts of the voters' pamphlet, publicize their availability, and mail without charge a copy to any person who requests one.
The secretary of state may make the material required to be distributed by this chapter available to the public in electronic form. The secretary of state may provide the material in electronic form to computer bulletin boards, print and broadcast news media, community computer networks, and similar services at the cost of reproduction or transmission of the data.
[ 2003 c 111 § 801. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.81.210.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.020 - Prohibition against deceptively similar campaign materials.

RCW 29A.32.020
Prohibition against deceptively similar campaign materials.
No person or entity may publish or distribute any campaign material that is deceptively similar in design or appearance to a voters' pamphlet that was published by the secretary of state during the ten-year period before the publication or distribution of the campaign material by the person or entity. The secretary of state shall take reasonable measures to prevent or to stop violations of this section. Such measures may include, among others, petitioning the superior court for a temporary restraining order or other appropriate injunctive relief. In addition, the secretary may request the superior court to impose a civil fine on a violator of this section. The court is authorized to levy on and recover from each violator a civil fine not to exceed the greater of: (1) Two dollars for each copy of the deceptive material distributed, or (2) one thousand dollars. In addition, the violator is liable for the state's legal expenses and other costs resulting from the violation. Any funds recovered under this section must be transmitted to the state treasurer for deposit in the general fund.
[ 2003 c 111 § 802; 1984 c 41 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.04.035.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.032 - Party preference.

RCW 29A.32.032
Party preference.
The voters' pamphlet must also contain the political party preference or independent status where a candidate appearing on the ballot has expressed such a preference on his or her declaration of candidacy.
[ 2005 c 2 § 11 (Initiative Measure No. 872, approved November 2, 2004).]
NOTES:
Short title—Intent—Contingent effective date—2005 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 872): See notes following RCW 29A.52.112.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.040 - Explanatory statements.

RCW 29A.32.040
Explanatory statements.
(1) Explanatory statements prepared by the attorney general under RCW 29A.32.070 (3) and (4) must be written in clear and concise language, avoiding legal and technical terms when possible. Statements are initiated by written request from the secretary of state, and must be filed with the secretary of state by the date provided in the request.
(2) When the explanatory statements for a measure initiated by petition are filed with the secretary of state, the secretary of state shall immediately provide the text of the statements to the person proposing the measure and any others who have made written request for notification of the exact language of the statements. When the statements for a measure referred to the ballot by the legislature are filed with the secretary of state, the secretary of state shall immediately provide the text of the statements to the presiding officer of the senate, the presiding officer of the house of representatives, the prime sponsor, and any others who have made written request for notification of the exact language of the statements.
(3) A person dissatisfied with the statements may appeal to the superior court of Thurston county within five days of the filing date. A copy of the petition and a notice of the appeal must be served on the secretary of state and the attorney general. The court shall examine the measure, the statements, and objections, and may hear arguments. The court shall render its decision and certify to and file with the secretary of state a statement it determines will meet the requirements of this chapter, and within the timelines identified by the secretary of state.
The decision of the superior court is final, and its statement is the established explanatory statement. The appeal must be heard without costs to either party.
[ 2015 c 171 § 1; 2009 c 415 § 3; 2003 c 111 § 804. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.81.230.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.060 - Arguments.

RCW 29A.32.060
Arguments.
Committees shall write and submit arguments advocating the approval or rejection of each statewide ballot issue and rebuttals of those arguments. The secretary of state, the presiding officer of the senate, and the presiding officer of the house of representatives shall appoint the initial two members of each committee. In making these committee appointments the secretary of state and presiding officers of the senate and house of representatives shall consider legislators, sponsors of initiatives and referendums, and other interested groups known to advocate or oppose the ballot measure. Committees must have the explanatory and fiscal impact statements available before preparing their arguments.
The initial two members may select up to four additional members, and the committee shall elect a chairperson. The remaining committee member or members may fill vacancies through appointment.
After the committee submits its initial argument statements to the secretary of state, the secretary of state shall transmit the statements to the opposite committee. The opposite committee may then prepare rebuttal arguments. Rebuttals may not interject new points.
The voters' pamphlet may contain only argument statements prepared according to this section. Arguments may contain graphs and charts supported by factual statistical data and pictures or other illustrations. Cartoons or caricatures are not permitted.
[ 2015 c 171 § 2; 2003 c 111 § 806. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.81.240.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.080 - Amendatory style.

RCW 29A.32.080
Amendatory style.
Statewide ballot measures that amend existing law must be printed in the voters' pamphlet so that language proposed for deletion is enclosed by double parentheses and has a line through it. Proposed new language must be underlined. A statement explaining the deletion and addition of language must appear as follows: "Any language in double parentheses with a line through it is existing state law and will be taken out of the law if this measure is approved by voters. Any underlined language does not appear in current state law but will be added to the law if this measure is approved by voters."
[ 2003 c 111 § 808. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 6. Formerly RCW 29.81.260.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.100 - Arguments—Public inspection.

RCW 29A.32.100
Arguments—Public inspection.
(1) An argument or statement submitted to the secretary of state for publication in the voters' pamphlet is not available for public inspection or copying until:
(a) In the case of candidate statements, (i) all statements by all candidates who have filed for a particular office have been received, except those who informed the secretary that they will not submit statements, or (ii) the deadline for submission of statements has elapsed;
(b) In the case of arguments supporting or opposing a measure, (i) the arguments on both sides have been received, unless a committee was not appointed for one side, or (ii) the deadline for submission of arguments has elapsed; and
(c) In the case of rebuttal arguments, (i) the rebuttals on both sides have been received, unless a committee was not appointed for one side, or (ii) the deadline for submission of arguments has elapsed.
(2) Nothing in this section prohibits the secretary from releasing information under RCW 29A.32.090.
[ 2013 c 11 § 37; 2003 c 111 § 810. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 9. Formerly RCW 29.81.290.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.110 - Photographs.

RCW 29A.32.110
Photographs.
All photographs of candidates submitted for publication must conform to standards established by the secretary of state by rule. No photograph may reveal clothing or insignia suggesting the holding of a public office.
[ 2003 c 111 § 811. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 10. Formerly RCW 29.81.300.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.121 - Candidates' statements—Length.

RCW 29A.32.121
Candidates' statements—Length.
(1) The maximum number of words for statements submitted by candidates is as follows: State representative, one hundred words; state senator, judge of the superior court, judge of the court of appeals, justice of the supreme court, and all state offices voted upon throughout the state, except that of governor, two hundred words; president and vice president, United States senator, United States representative, and governor, three hundred words.
(2) Arguments written by committees under RCW 29A.32.060 may not exceed two hundred fifty words in length.
(3) Rebuttal arguments written by committees may not exceed seventy-five words in length.
(4) The secretary of state shall allocate space in the pamphlet based on the number of candidates or nominees for each office.
[ 2004 c 271 § 168.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.125 - Deadline for submission of candidate statements and photographs.

RCW 29A.32.125
Deadline for submission of candidate statements and photographs.
The secretary may, by rule, set a deadline for submission of candidate statements and photographs for inclusion in the statewide voters' pamphlet. The deadline for submission of candidate statements and photographs must be not sooner than 11 days immediately following the deadline for filing declarations of candidacy under RCW 29A.24.050.
[ 2023 c 394 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.210 - Duty to print and distribute—Contents—Format.

RCW 29A.32.210
Duty to print and distribute—Contents—Format.
Before any primary or general election, or any special election held under RCW 29A.04.321 or 29A.04.330, each county auditor shall print and distribute a local voters' pamphlet. The pamphlet shall provide information on all measures and candidates within that jurisdiction. The format of any local voters' pamphlet shall, whenever applicable, comply with the provisions of this chapter regarding the publication of the state candidates' and voters' pamphlets.
[ 2020 c 337 § 6; 2013 c 11 § 38; 2003 c 111 § 813; 1984 c 106 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.81A.010.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 337: See note following RCW 29A.04.410.