Bill > HB1710

This bill establishes a new process for certain local governments in Washington, referred to as "covered jurisdictions," to ensure their voting-related policies comply with voting rights laws. A "covered jurisdiction" is defined as a political subdivision that has previously violated voting rights laws, including the Washington Voting Rights Act (chapter 29A.92 RCW) or federal voting rights laws, or has been found to have enacted policies without proper approval. A "covered policy" includes changes to how local officials are elected, alterations to district boundaries that disproportionately affect minority voting populations, changes to election district boundaries, restrictions on language assistance for voters, modifications to a jurisdiction's governmental structure, or any change that could dilute voting rights based on race, color, or language minority status. Before implementing a "covered policy," the governing body of a "covered jurisdiction" must submit it to the Attorney General for a "certification of no objection," which will be granted only if the policy does not diminish the ability of protected classes to participate in the political process or elect their preferred candidates, and does not violate existing voting rights laws. The Attorney General has 60 days to review the policy, with potential extensions, and if no objection is issued, the policy can be considered approved, though this does not prevent future legal challenges. The Attorney General can also take legal action to prevent the implementation of a "covered policy" that violates these requirements, and affected individuals or organizations can also challenge policies. The Attorney General will maintain a public website listing "covered jurisdictions" and their submitted policies, and once a policy is approved and upheld, it generally cannot be challenged for four years unless it is changed. This act will become void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2026.