reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.220 - Notice of production—Local governments' decision to participate.

RCW 29A.32.220
Notice of production—Local governments' decision to participate.
(1) Not later than ninety days before the publication and distribution of a local voters' pamphlet by a county, the county auditor shall notify each city, town, or special taxing district located wholly within that county that a pamphlet will be produced.
(2) If a voters' pamphlet is published by the county for a primary or general election, the pamphlet shall be published for the elective offices and ballot measures of the county and for the elective offices and ballot measures of each unit of local government located entirely within the county which will appear on the ballot at that primary or election. However, the offices and measures of a first-class or code city shall not be included in the pamphlet if the city publishes and distributes its own voters' pamphlet for the primary or election for its offices and measures. The offices and measures of any other town or city are not required to appear in the county's pamphlet if the town or city is obligated by ordinance or charter to publish and distribute a voters' pamphlet for the primary or election for its offices and measures and it does so.
If the required appearance in a county's voters' pamphlet of the offices or measures of a unit of local government would create undue financial hardship for the unit of government, the legislative authority of the unit may petition the legislative authority of the county to waive this requirement. The legislative authority of the county may provide such a waiver if it does so not later than sixty days before the publication of the pamphlet and it finds that the requirement would create such hardship.
(3) If a city, town, or district is located within more than one county, the respective county auditors may enter into an interlocal agreement to permit the distribution of each county's local voters' pamphlet into those parts of the city, town, or district located outside of that county.
(4) If a first-class or code city authorizes the production and distribution of a local voters' pamphlet, the city clerk of that city shall notify any special taxing district located wholly within that city that a pamphlet will be produced. Notification shall be provided in the manner required or provided for in subsection (1) of this section.
(5) A unit of local government located within a county and the county may enter into an interlocal agreement for the publication of a voters' pamphlet for offices or measures not required by subsection (2) of this section to appear in a county's pamphlet.
[ 2003 c 111 § 814; 1994 c 191 § 1; 1984 c 106 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.81A.020.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.230 - Administrative rules.

RCW 29A.32.230
Administrative rules.
The county auditor or, if applicable, the city clerk of a first-class or code city shall, in consultation with the participating jurisdictions, adopt and publish administrative rules necessary to facilitate the provisions of any ordinance authorizing production of a local voters' pamphlet. Any amendment to such a rule shall also be adopted and published. Copies of the rules shall identify the date they were adopted or last amended and shall be made available to any person upon request. One copy of the rules adopted by a county auditor and one copy of any amended rules shall be submitted to the county legislative authority. One copy of the rules adopted by a city clerk and one copy of any amended rules shall be submitted to the city legislative authority. These rules shall include but not be limited to the following:
(1) Deadlines for decisions by cities, towns, or special taxing districts on being included in the pamphlet;
(2) Limits on the length and deadlines for submission of arguments for and against each measure;
(3) The basis for rejection of any explanatory or candidates' statement or argument deemed to be libelous or otherwise inappropriate. Any statements by a candidate shall be limited to those about the candidate himself or herself;
(4) Limits on the length of candidates' statements;
(5) Deadlines for submission of candidates' statements not sooner than 11 days following the deadline for filing declarations of candidacy under RCW 29A.24.050;
(6) An appeal process in the case of the rejection of any statement or argument.
[ 2023 c 394 § 10; 2003 c 111 § 815. Prior: 1984 c 106 § 5. Formerly RCW 29.81A.030.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.241 - Contents.

RCW 29A.32.241
Contents.
(1) The local voters' pamphlet shall include but not be limited to the following:
(a) Appearing on the cover, the words "official local voters' pamphlet," the name of the jurisdiction producing the pamphlet, and the date of the election or primary;
(b) A list of jurisdictions that have measures or candidates in the pamphlet;
(c) Information on how a person may register to vote and obtain a ballot;
(d) The text of each measure accompanied by an explanatory statement prepared by the prosecuting attorney for any county measure or by the attorney for the jurisdiction submitting the measure if other than a county measure. All explanatory statements for city, town, or district measures not approved by the attorney for the jurisdiction submitting the measure shall be reviewed and approved by the county prosecuting attorney or city attorney, when applicable, before inclusion in the pamphlet;
(e) The arguments for and against each measure submitted by committees selected pursuant to RCW 29A.32.280;
(f) A list of all student engagement hubs in the county as designated under RCW 29A.40.180; and
(g) For partisan primary elections, information on how to vote the applicable ballot format and an explanation that minor political party candidates and independent candidates will appear only on the general election ballot.
(2) The county auditor's name may not appear in the local voters' pamphlet in his or her official capacity if the county auditor is a candidate for office during the same year. His or her name may only be included as part of the information normally included for candidates.
[ 2020 c 208 § 12; 2016 c 83 § 2; 2011 c 10 § 29; 2004 c 271 § 123.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—2020 c 208: See notes following RCW 29A.08.210.
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.32.250 - Candidates, when included.

RCW 29A.32.250
Candidates, when included.
If the legislative authority of a county or first-class or code city provides for the inclusion of candidates in the local voters' pamphlet, the pamphlet shall include the statements from candidates and may also include those candidates' photographs.
[ 2003 c 111 § 817. Prior: 1984 c 106 § 7. Formerly RCW 29.81A.050.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.260 - Mailing.

RCW 29A.32.260
Mailing.
As soon as practicable before the primary, special election, or general election, the county auditor, or if applicable, the city clerk of a first-class or code city, as appropriate, shall mail the local voters' pamphlet to every residence in each jurisdiction that has included information in the pamphlet. The county auditor or city clerk, as appropriate, may choose to mail the pamphlet to each registered voter in each jurisdiction that has included information in the pamphlet, if in his or her judgment, a more economical and effective distribution of the pamphlet would result. The county auditor shall either mail or send a printable electronic version of the state and local voters' pamphlets to any service or overseas voter registered in the jurisdiction who has requested them.
[ 2022 c 193 § 2; 2011 c 10 § 30; 2003 c 111 § 818. Prior: 1984 c 106 § 8. Formerly RCW 29.81A.060.]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2022 c 193: "The legislature finds that service and overseas voters have the right to vote for their elected officials. To effectuate this right, service and overseas voters must have access to the same ballot materials as voters present in the state with sufficient time to thoughtfully consider candidates and issues before casting a ballot. Accordingly, the legislature intends to ensure that voters' pamphlets are available to service and overseas voters at the same time as the ballot." [ 2022 c 193 § 1.]
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.32.270 - Cost.

RCW 29A.32.270
Cost.
The cost of a local voters' pamphlet shall be considered an election cost to those local jurisdictions included in the pamphlet and shall be prorated in the manner provided in RCW 29A.04.410.
[ 2003 c 111 § 819. Prior: 1984 c 106 § 9. Formerly RCW 29.81A.070.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.32 - Voters' Pamphlets. › 29A.32.280 - Arguments advocating approval or disapproval—Preparation by committees.

RCW 29A.32.280
Arguments advocating approval or disapproval—Preparation by committees.
For each measure from a unit of local government that is included in a local voters' pamphlet, the legislative authority of that jurisdiction shall, not later than the resolution deadline, formally appoint a committee to prepare arguments advocating voters' approval of the measure and shall formally appoint a committee to prepare arguments advocating voters' rejection of the measure. The authority shall appoint persons known to favor the measure to serve on the committee advocating approval and shall, whenever possible, appoint persons known to oppose the measure to serve on the committee advocating rejection. Each committee shall have not more than three members, however, a committee may seek the advice of any person or persons. If the legislative authority of a unit of local government fails to make such appointments by the prescribed deadline, the county auditor shall whenever possible make the appointments.
[ 2015 c 146 § 3; 2003 c 111 § 820. Prior: 1994 c 191 § 2; 1984 c 106 § 10. Formerly RCW 29.81A.080.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.010 - Certifying primary candidates.

RCW 29A.36.010
Certifying primary candidates.
Not later than the Tuesday following the regular filing period, the secretary of state shall certify to each county auditor a list of the candidates who have filed declarations of candidacy in his or her office for the primary. For each office, the certificate shall include the name of each candidate, his or her address, and his or her party preference, if any, provided on filed declarations.
[ 2013 c 11 § 39; 2011 c 349 § 15. Prior: 2005 c 2 § 12 (Initiative Measure No. 872, approved November 2, 2004); 2003 c 111 § 901; prior: 1990 c 59 § 8; 1965 ex.s. c 103 § 4; 1965 c 9 § 29.27.020; prior: 1949 c 161 § 10, part; 1947 c 234 § 2, part; 1935 c 26 § 1, part; 1921 c 178 § 4, part; 1907 c 209 § 8, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5185, part. Formerly RCW 29.27.020.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
Short title—Intent—Contingent effective date—2005 c 2 (Initiative Measure No. 872): See notes following RCW 29A.52.112.
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.030 - Constitutional measures—Ballot title—Filing.

RCW 29A.36.030
Constitutional measures—Ballot title—Filing.
The ballot title for a constitutional amendment or proposed constitution must be filed with the secretary of state in the same manner as the ballot title and summary for a state initiative or referendum are filed.
[ 2003 c 111 § 903. Prior: 2000 c 197 § 8. Formerly RCW 29.27.061.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2000 c 197: See note following RCW 29A.72.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.040 - Constitutional questions—Notice of ballot title and summary.

RCW 29A.36.040
Constitutional questions—Notice of ballot title and summary.
Upon the filing of a ballot title under RCW 29A.36.020, the secretary of state shall provide notice of the exact language of the ballot title and summary to the chief clerk of the house of representatives, the secretary of the senate, and the prime sponsor of measure.
[ 2013 c 11 § 92; 2003 c 111 § 904. Prior: 2000 c 197 § 9; 1993 c 256 § 11; 1965 c 9 § 29.27.065; prior: 1953 c 242 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.27.065.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2000 c 197: See note following RCW 29A.72.050.
Severability—Effective date—1993 c 256: See notes following RCW 29A.84.280.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.060 - Constitutional questions—Ballot title—Appeal.

RCW 29A.36.060
Constitutional questions—Ballot title—Appeal.
If any persons are dissatisfied with the ballot title for a proposed constitution or constitutional amendment, they may at any time within ten days from the time of the filing of the ballot title and summary, not including Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays, appeal to the superior court of Thurston county by petition setting forth the measure, the ballot title objected to, their objections to it, and praying for amendment of the ballot title. The time of the filing of the ballot title, as used in this section for establishing the time for appeal, is the time the ballot title is first filed with the secretary of state.
A copy of the petition on appeal together with a notice that an appeal has been taken must be served upon the secretary of state, the attorney general, the chief clerk of the house of representatives, and the secretary of the senate. Upon the filing of the petition on appeal, the court shall immediately, or at the time to which a hearing may be adjourned by consent of the appellants, examine the proposed measure, the ballot title filed, and the objections to it and may hear arguments on it, and shall as soon as possible render its decision and certify to and file with the secretary of state a ballot title that it determines will meet the requirements of this chapter. The decision of the superior court is final, and the ballot title so certified will be the established ballot title. The appeal must be heard without cost to either party.
[ 2013 c 11 § 40; 2003 c 111 § 906. Prior: 2000 c 197 § 11. Formerly RCW 29.27.0655.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2000 c 197: See note following RCW 29A.72.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.071 - Local measures—Ballot title—Formulation—Advertising.

RCW 29A.36.071
Local measures—Ballot title—Formulation—Advertising.
(1) Except as provided to the contrary in RCW 82.14.036, 82.46.021, or 82.80.090, the ballot title of any referendum filed on an enactment or portion of an enactment of a local government and any other question submitted to the voters of a local government consists of three elements: (a) An identification of the enacting legislative body and a statement of the subject matter; (b) a concise description of the measure; and (c) a question. The ballot title must conform with the requirements and be displayed substantially as provided under RCW 29A.72.050, except that the concise description must not exceed seventy-five words; however, a concise description submitted on behalf of a proposed or existing regional transportation investment district or a proposed fire protection district, as provided in RCW 52.02.160, may exceed seventy-five words. If the local governmental unit is a city or a town, or if the ballot title is for a referendum under RCW 35.13A.115, the concise statement must be prepared by the city or town attorney. If the local governmental unit is a county, the concise statement must be prepared by the prosecuting attorney of the county. If the unit is a unit of local government other than a city, town, or county, the concise statement must be prepared by the prosecuting attorney of the county within which the majority area of the unit is located.
(2) A referendum measure on the enactment of a unit of local government must be advertised in the manner provided for nominees for elective office.
(3) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply if another provision of law specifies the ballot title for a specific type of ballot question or proposition.
[ 2017 c 328 § 4; 2015 c 172 § 3; 2006 c 311 § 9; 2004 c 271 § 169.]
NOTES:
Findings—2006 c 311: See note following RCW 36.120.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.080 - Local measures—Ballot title—Notice.

RCW 29A.36.080
Local measures—Ballot title—Notice.
Upon the filing of a ballot title of a question to be submitted to the people of a county or municipality, the county auditor shall provide notice of the exact language of the ballot title to the persons proposing the measure, the county or municipality, and to any other person requesting a copy of the ballot title.
[ 2003 c 111 § 908. Prior: 2000 c 197 § 13. Formerly RCW 29.27.0665.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2000 c 197: See note following RCW 29A.72.050.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.090 - Local measures—Ballot title—Appeal.

RCW 29A.36.090
Local measures—Ballot title—Appeal.
If any persons are dissatisfied with the ballot title for a local ballot measure that was formulated by the city attorney or prosecuting attorney preparing the same, they may at any time within ten days from the time of the filing of the ballot title, not including Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, appeal to the superior court of the county where the question is to appear on the ballot, by petition setting forth the measure, the ballot title objected to, their objections to it, and praying for amendment of it. The time of the filing of the ballot title, as used in this section in determining the time for appeal, is the time the ballot title is first filed with the county auditor.
A copy of the petition on appeal together with a notice that an appeal has been taken shall be served upon the county auditor and the official preparing the ballot title. Upon the filing of the petition on appeal, the court shall immediately, or at the time to which a hearing may be adjourned by consent of the appellants, examine the proposed measure, the ballot title filed, and the objections to it and may hear arguments on it, and shall as soon as possible render its decision and certify to and file with the county auditor a ballot title that it determines will meet the requirements of this chapter. The decision of the superior court is final, and the ballot title or statement so certified will be the established ballot title. The appeal must be heard without cost to either party.
[ 2003 c 111 § 909. Prior: 2000 c 197 § 14; 1993 c 256 § 12; 1965 c 9 § 29.27.067; prior: 1953 c 242 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.27.067.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2000 c 197: See note following RCW 29A.72.050.
Severability—Effective date—1993 c 256: See notes following RCW 29A.84.280.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.101 - Names on primary ballot.

RCW 29A.36.101
Names on primary ballot.
Except for the candidates for president and vice president, or for a partisan or nonpartisan office for which no primary is required, the names of all candidates who, under this title, filed a declaration of candidacy must appear on the appropriate ballot at the primary throughout the jurisdiction for which they filed.
[ 2013 c 11 § 41; 2004 c 271 § 125.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.111 - Uniformity, arrangement, contents required—Contracts with vendors.

RCW 29A.36.111
Uniformity, arrangement, contents required—Contracts with vendors.
(1) Every ballot for a single combination of issues, offices, and candidates shall be uniform within a precinct and shall identify the type of primary or election, the county, and the date of the primary or election, and the ballot or voting device shall contain instructions on the proper method of recording a vote, including write-in votes. Each position, together with the names of the candidates for that office, shall be clearly separated from other offices or positions in the same jurisdiction. The offices in each jurisdiction shall be clearly separated from each other. No paper ballot or ballot card may be marked by or at the direction of an election official in any way that would permit the identification of the person who voted that ballot.
(2) An elections [election] official may not enter into or extend any contract with a vendor if such contract may allow the vendor to acquire an ownership interest in any data pertaining to any voter, any voter's address, registration number, or history, or any ballot.
[ 2009 c 414 § 1; 2004 c 271 § 128.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.115 - Provisional ballots.

RCW 29A.36.115
Provisional ballots.
All provisional ballots must be visually distinguishable from other ballots and incapable of being tabulated by a voting system.
[ 2011 c 10 § 31; 2005 c 243 § 3.]
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.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.121 - Order of positions or offices.

RCW 29A.36.121
Order of positions or offices.
(1) The positions or offices on a primary consolidated ballot shall be arranged in substantially the following order: United States senator; United States representative; governor; lieutenant governor; secretary of state; state treasurer; state auditor; attorney general; commissioner of public lands; superintendent of public instruction; insurance commissioner; state senator; state representative; county officers; justices of the supreme court; judges of the court of appeals; judges of the superior court; and judges of the district court. For all other jurisdictions on the primary ballot, the offices in each jurisdiction shall be grouped together and be in the order of the position numbers assigned to those offices, if any.
(2) The order of the positions or offices on a general election ballot shall be substantially the same as on a primary ballot except that state ballot issues must be placed before all offices. The offices of president and vice president of the United States shall precede all other offices on a presidential election ballot. The positions on a ballot to be assigned to ballot measures regarding local units of government shall be established by the secretary of state by rule.
[ 2013 c 11 § 42; 2004 c 271 § 129.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.131 - Order of candidates on ballots.

RCW 29A.36.131
Order of candidates on ballots.
After the close of business on the last day for candidates to file for office, the filing officer shall determine by lot the order in which the names of those candidates will appear on all ballots. The determination shall be done publicly and may be witnessed by the media and by any candidate. If no primary is required, the names shall appear on the general election ballot in the order determined by lot.
[ 2013 c 11 § 43; 2011 c 10 § 32; 2004 c 271 § 130.]
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.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.151 - Sample ballots.

RCW 29A.36.151
Sample ballots.
Except in each county with a population of one million or more, on or before the fifteenth day before a primary or election, the county auditor shall prepare a sample ballot which shall be made readily available to members of the public. The secretary of state shall adopt rules governing the preparation of sample ballots in counties with a population of one million or more. The rules shall permit, among other alternatives, the preparation of more than one sample ballot by a county with a population of one million or more for a primary or election, each of which lists a portion of the offices and issues to be voted on in that county. The position of precinct committee officer shall be shown on the sample ballot for the primary, but the names of candidates for the individual positions need not be shown.
[ 2004 c 271 § 131.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.161 - Arrangement of instructions, measures, offices—Order of candidates.

RCW 29A.36.161
Arrangement of instructions, measures, offices—Order of candidates.
(1) On the top of each ballot must be printed:
(a) Clear and concise instructions directing the voter how to mark the ballot, including write-in votes; and
(b) The following statement: "For a list of the people and organizations that donated to state and local candidates and ballot measure campaigns, visit www.pdc.wa.gov." The secretary of state may substitute such language as is necessary for accuracy and clarity and consistent with the intent of this section. Alternately, at the discretion of the county auditor or local election official, the statement required by this subsection (1)(b) may be printed in a prominent position on the ballot envelope and in the materials that accompany the ballot.
(2) The ballot must have a clear delineation between the ballot instructions and the first ballot measure or office through the use of white space, illustration, shading, color, symbol, font size, or bold type. The secretary of state shall establish standards for ballot design and layout consistent with this section and RCW 29A.04.611.
(3) The questions of adopting constitutional amendments or any other state measure authorized by law to be submitted to the voters at that election must appear after the instructions and before any offices.
(4) In a year that president and vice president appear on the general election ballot, the names of candidates for president and vice president for each political party must be grouped together with a single response position for a voter to indicate his or her choice.
The major political party that received the highest number of votes from the electors of this state for the office of president of the United States at the last presidential election must appear first. Other major political parties must follow according to the votes cast for their nominees for president at the last presidential election. Independent candidates and minor parties must follow major parties and be listed in the order of their qualification with the secretary of state.
[ 2013 c 283 § 3; 2013 c 11 § 44; 2011 c 10 § 33; 2010 c 32 § 1; 2004 c 271 § 132.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2013 c 11 § 44 and by 2013 c 283 § 3, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Findings—Intent—2013 c 283: See note following RCW 29A.32.031.
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.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.180 - Disqualified candidates in nonpartisan elections—Special procedures for conduct of election.

RCW 29A.36.180
Disqualified candidates in nonpartisan elections—Special procedures for conduct of election.
This section applies if a candidate for an elective office of a city, town, or special purpose district would, under this chapter, otherwise qualify to have his or her name printed on the general election ballot for the office, but the candidate has been declared to be unqualified to hold the office by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(1) In a case in which a primary is conducted for the office:
(a) If ballots for the general election for the office have not been ordered by the county auditor, the candidate who received the third greatest number of votes for the office at the primary shall qualify as a candidate for general election and that candidate's name shall be printed on the ballot for the office in lieu of the name of the disqualified candidate.
(b) If general election ballots for the office have been so ordered, votes cast for the disqualified candidate at the general election for the office shall not be counted for that office.
(2) In a case in which a primary is not conducted for the office:
(a) If ballots for the general election for the office have not been ordered by the county auditor, the name of the disqualified candidate shall not appear on the general election ballot for the office.
(b) If general election ballots for the office have been so ordered, votes cast for the disqualified candidate at the general election for the office shall not be counted for that office.
(3) If the disqualified candidate is the only candidate to have filed for the office during a regular or special filing period for the office, a void in candidacy for the office exists.
[ 2003 c 111 § 918. Prior: 1992 c 181 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.30.086.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1992 c 181: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1992." [ 1992 c 181 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.201 - Names qualified to appear on election ballot.

RCW 29A.36.201
Names qualified to appear on election ballot.
The names of candidates certified by the secretary of state or the county canvassing board as qualified to appear on the general election shall be printed on the general election ballot.
If a primary for an office was held, no name of any candidate shall be placed upon the ballot at a general or special election unless it appears upon the certificate of either (1) the secretary of state, or (2) the county canvassing board.
Excluding the office of precinct committee officer or a temporary elected position such as a charter review board member or freeholder, a candidate's name shall not appear on a ballot more than once.
[ 2013 c 11 § 46; 2004 c 271 § 171.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.210 - Property tax levies—Ballot form.

RCW 29A.36.210
Property tax levies—Ballot form.
(1) The ballot proposition authorizing a taxing district to impose the regular property tax levies authorized in RCW 36.68.525, 36.69.145, 67.38.130, 84.52.069, or 84.52.135 must contain in substance the following:
"Will the . . . . . . (insert the name of the taxing district) be authorized to impose regular property tax levies of . . . . . . (insert the maximum rate) or less per thousand dollars of assessed valuation for each of . . . . . . (insert the maximum number of years allowable) consecutive years?
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . .□
No  . . . . . . . . . . . .□"
Each voter may indicate either "Yes" or "No" on his or her ballot in accordance with the procedures established under this title.
(2) The ballot proposition authorizing a taxing district to impose a permanent regular tax levy under RCW 84.52.069 must contain in substance the following:
"Will the . . . . . (insert the name of the taxing district) be authorized to impose a PERMANENT regular property levy of . . . . . (insert the maximum rate) or less per thousand dollars of assessed valuation?
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . .□
No  . . . . . . . . . . . .□"
[ 2010 c 106 § 301; 2004 c 80 § 2; 2003 c 111 § 921. Prior: 1999 c 224 § 2; 1984 c 131 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.30.111.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2010 c 106: See note following RCW 35.102.145.
Effective date—2004 c 80: See note following RCW 84.52.135.
Application—1999 c 224: See note following RCW 84.52.069.
Purpose—1984 c 131 §§ 3-9: "The purpose of sections 3 through 6 of this act is to clarify requirements necessary for voters to authorize certain local governments to impose regular property tax levies for a series of years. Sections 3 through 9 of this act only clarify the existing law to avoid credence being given to an erroneous opinion that has been rendered by the attorney general. As cogently expressed in Attorney General Opinion, Number 14, Addendum, opinions rendered by the attorney general are advisory only and are merely a "prediction of the outcome if the matter were to be litigated." Nevertheless, confusion has arisen from this erroneous opinion." [ 1984 c 131 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.220 - Expense of printing and mailing ballots, envelopes, and instructions.

RCW 29A.36.220
Expense of printing and mailing ballots, envelopes, and instructions.
The cost of printing and mailing ballots, envelopes, and instructions shall be an election cost that shall be borne as determined under RCW 29A.04.410 and 29A.04.420, as appropriate.
[ 2011 c 10 § 34; 2003 c 111 § 922. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 16; 1965 c 9 § 29.30.130; prior: 1889 p 400 § 1; RRS § 5269. Formerly RCW 29.30.130.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.36 - Ballots and Other Voting Forms. › 29A.36.230 - Regional transportation investment district and regional transit authority single ballot.

RCW 29A.36.230
Regional transportation investment district and regional transit authority single ballot.
The election on the single ballot proposition described in RCW 36.120.070 and 81.112.030(10) must be conducted by the auditor of each component county in accordance with the general election laws of the state, except as provided in this section. Notice of the election must be published in one or more newspapers of general circulation in each component county in the manner provided in the general election laws. The single joint ballot proposition required under RCW 36.120.070 and 81.112.030(10) must be in substantially the following form:
"REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT DISTRICT (RTID)
AND
REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY (RTA)
PROPOSITION #1
REGIONAL ROADS AND TRANSIT SYSTEM
To reduce transportation congestion, increase road capacity, promote safety, facilitate mobility, provide for an integrated regional transportation system, and improve the health, welfare, and safety of the citizens of Washington, shall a regional transit authority (RTA) implement a regional rail and transit system to link [insert geographic references] as described in [insert plan name], financed by [insert taxes] imposed by RTA, all as provided in Resolution No. [insert number]; and shall a regional transportation investment district (RTID) be formed and authorized to implement and invest in improving the regional transportation system by replacing vulnerable bridges, improving safety, and increasing capacity on state and local roads to further link major education, employment, and retail centers described in [insert plan name] financed by [insert taxes] imposed by RTID, all as provided in Resolution No. [insert number]; further provided that the RTA taxes shall be imposed only within the boundaries of the RTA, and the RTID taxes shall be imposed only within the boundaries of the RTID?
Yes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .□
No  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .□"
[ 2007 c 509 § 4.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Constitutional challenges—Expedited appeals—Severability—Effective date—2007 c 509: See notes following RCW 36.120.070.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.010 - Ballots by mail.

RCW 29A.40.010
Ballots by mail.
Each active registered voter of the state, overseas voter, and service voter shall automatically be issued a mail ballot for each general election, special election, or primary. Overseas voters and service voters are authorized to cast the same ballots, including those for special elections, as a registered voter of the state would receive under this chapter. Each active registered voter shall continue to receive a ballot by mail until the death or disqualification of the voter, cancellation of the voter's registration, or placing the voter on inactive status.
[ 2013 c 11 § 47; 2011 c 10 § 35; 2009 c 369 § 36; 2003 c 111 § 1001. Prior: 2001 c 241 § 1; 1991 c 81 § 29; 1987 c 346 § 9; 1986 c 167 § 14; 1985 c 273 § 1; 1984 c 27 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 76; 1974 ex.s. c 35 § 1; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 37; 1965 c 9 § 29.36.010; prior: 1963 ex.s. c 23 § 1; 1955 c 167 § 2; prior: (i) 1950 ex.s. c 8 § 1; 1943 c 72 § 1; 1933 ex.s. c 41 § 1; 1923 c 58 § 1; 1921 c 143 § 1; 1917 c 159 § 1; 1915 c 189 § 1; Rem. Supp. 1943 § 5280. (ii) 1933 ex.s. c 41 § 2, part; 1923 c 58 § 2, part; 1921 c 143 § 2, part; 1917 c 159 § 2, part; 1915 c 189 § 2, part; RRS § 5281, part. Formerly RCW 29.36.210, 29.36.010.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
Legislative intent—1987 c 346: "By this act the legislature intends to combine and unify the laws and procedures governing absentee voting. These amendments are intended: (1) To clarify and incorporate into a single chapter of the Revised Code of Washington the preexisting statutes under which electors of this state qualify for absentee ballots under state law, federal law, or a combination of both state and federal law, and (2) to insure uniformity in the application, issuance, receipt, and canvassing of these absentee ballots. Nothing in this act is intended to impose any new requirement on the ability of the registered voters or electors of this state to qualify for, receive, or cast absentee ballots in any primary or election." [ 1987 c 346 § 1.]
Effective date—1987 c 346: "This act shall take effect on January 1, 1988." [ 1987 c 346 § 25.]
Severability—1986 c 167: See note following RCW 29A.16.040.
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.020 - Request for ballot from an overseas voter or service voter.

RCW 29A.40.020
Request for ballot from an overseas voter or service voter.
(1) A request for a ballot from an overseas voter or service voter must include the address of the last residence in the state of Washington.
(2) No person, organization, or association may distribute any ballot materials that contain a return address other than that of the appropriate county auditor.
[ 2011 c 10 § 36; 2009 c 369 § 37; 2003 c 111 § 1002; 2001 c 241 § 2. Formerly RCW 29.36.220.]
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.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.050 - Special ballots.

RCW 29A.40.050
Special ballots.
(1) County auditors shall provide special absentee ballots to be used for state primary or state general elections. An auditor shall provide a special absentee ballot only to a registered voter who completes an application stating that she or he will be unable to vote and return a regular ballot by normal mail delivery within the period provided for regular ballots.
A special absentee ballot may not be requested more than ninety days before the applicable state primary or general election. The special absentee ballot will list the offices and measures, if known, scheduled to appear on the state primary or general election ballot. The voter may use the special absentee ballot to write in the name of any eligible candidate for each office and vote on any measure.
(2) The county auditor shall include a listing of any candidates who have filed before the time of the application for offices that will appear on the ballot at that primary or election and a list of any issues that have been referred to the ballot before the time of the application.
(3) Write-in votes on special absentee ballots must be counted in the same manner provided by law for the counting of other write-in votes. The county auditor shall process and canvass the special absentee ballots provided under this section in the same manner as other ballots under this chapter and chapter 29A.60 RCW.
(4) A voter who requests a special absentee ballot under this section may also request a regular ballot. If the regular absentee ballot is properly voted and returned, the special absentee ballot is void, and the county auditor shall reject it in whole when special absentee ballots are canvassed.
[ 2011 c 10 § 37; 2003 c 111 § 1005; 2001 c 241 § 5; 1991 c 81 § 35; 1987 c 346 § 21. Formerly RCW 29.36.250, 29.36.170.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
Legislative intent—Effective date—1987 c 346: See notes following RCW 29A.40.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.070 - Date ballots mailed—Replacement ballots.

RCW 29A.40.070
Date ballots mailed—Replacement ballots.
(1) Except where a recount or litigation is pending, the county auditor must mail ballots to each voter at least eighteen days before each primary or election, and as soon as possible for all subsequent registration changes.
(2) Except where a recount or litigation is pending, the county auditor must mail ballots to each service and overseas voter at least thirty days before each special election, and at least forty-five days before each primary or general election, or any special election that involves federal office. A request for a ballot made by an overseas or service voter after that day must be processed immediately.
(3) A registered voter may obtain a replacement ballot if the ballot is destroyed, spoiled, lost, or not received by the voter. The voter may obtain the ballot by telephone request, by mail, electronically, or in person. The county auditor shall keep a record of each request for a replacement ballot.
(4) Each county auditor shall certify to the office of the secretary of state the dates the ballots were mailed, or the reason and date the ballots will be mailed if the ballots were not mailed timely.
(5) Failure to mail ballots as prescribed in this section does not by itself provide a basis for an election contest or other legal challenge to the results of a primary, general election, or special election.
[ 2013 c 11 § 48. Prior: 2011 c 349 § 16; 2011 c 10 § 38; 2006 c 344 § 13; 2004 c 266 § 13; prior: 2003 c 162 § 2; 2003 c 111 § 1007; prior: 1987 c 54 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 56; 1965 ex.s. c 103 § 5; 1965 c 9 § 29.30.075; prior: 1949 c 161 § 10, part; 1947 c 234 § 2, part; 1935 c 26 § 1, part; 1921 c 178 § 4, part; 1907 c 209 § 8, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5185, part. Formerly RCW 29.36.270, 29.30.075.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 349: See note following RCW 29A.04.255.
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective date—2006 c 344 §§ 1-16 and 18-40: See note following RCW 29A.04.311.
Effective date—2004 c 266: See note following RCW 29A.04.575.
Policy—2003 c 162: "It is the policy of the state of Washington that individuals voting absentee and mail ballots receive their ballots in a timely and consistent manner before each election. Since many voters in Washington state have come to rely upon absentee and mail voting, mailing the ballots in a timely manner is critical in order to maximize participation by every eligible voter." [ 2003 c 162 § 1.]
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.100 - Observers.

RCW 29A.40.100
Observers.
County auditors must request that observers be appointed by the major political parties to be present during the processing of ballots at the counting center. County auditors have discretion to also request that observers be appointed by any campaigns or organizations. The absence of the observers will not prevent the processing of ballots if the county auditor has requested their presence.
[ 2011 c 10 § 40; 2003 c 111 § 1010. Prior: 2001 c 241 § 9. Formerly RCW 29.36.300.]
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.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.130 - Record of voters issued a ballot and voters who returned a ballot—Public access.

RCW 29A.40.130
Record of voters issued a ballot and voters who returned a ballot—Public access.
Each county auditor shall maintain in his or her office, open for public inspection, a record of all voters issued a ballot and all voters who returned a ballot. For each primary, special election, or general election, any political party, committee, or person may request a list of all registered voters who have or have not voted. Such requests shall be handled as public records requests pursuant to chapter 42.56 RCW.
[ 2011 c 10 § 42; 2003 c 111 § 1013. Prior: 1991 c 81 § 33; 1987 c 346 § 17; 1973 1st ex.s. c 61 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.36.340, 29.36.097.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
Legislative intent—Effective date—1987 c 346: See notes following RCW 29A.40.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.40 - Elections by Mail. › 29A.40.170 - Ballot drop boxes.

RCW 29A.40.170
Ballot drop boxes.
(1) The county auditor must prevent overflow of each ballot drop box to allow a voter to deposit his or her ballot securely. Ballots must be removed from a ballot drop box by at least two people, with a record kept of the date and time ballots were removed, and the names of people removing them. Ballots from drop boxes must be returned to the counting center in secured transport containers. A copy of the record must be placed in the container, and one copy must be transported with the ballots to the counting center, where the seal number must be verified by the county auditor or a designated representative. All ballot drop boxes must be secured at 8:00 p.m. on the day of the primary, special election, or general election.
(2) The county auditor must establish a minimum of one ballot drop box per fifteen thousand registered voters in the county and a minimum of one ballot drop box in each city, town, and census-designated place in the county with a post office.
(3) At the request of a federally recognized Indian tribe with a reservation in the county, the county auditor must establish at least one ballot drop box on the Indian reservation on a site selected by the tribe that is accessible to the county auditor by a public road.
(4) A federally recognized Indian tribe may designate at least one building as a ballot pickup and collection location at no cost to the tribe. The designated building must be accessible to the county auditor by a public road. The county auditor of the county in which the building is located must collect ballots from that location in compliance with the procedures in subsection (1) of this section.
[ 2019 c 6 § 5.]