Bill > SB5684

This bill amends existing election law to expand restrictions on electioneering (political campaigning) near election offices by prohibiting political activities within the building that houses a county auditor's division of elections, as well as in any adjacent county-owned parking lots routinely used by that building. The legislation recognizes that every state has some form of restriction on political activities near voting locations, and argues that these "buffer zones" are important for preventing voter intimidation and election fraud. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal for any person during the voting period (18 days before an election) to suggest how voters should vote, distribute campaign materials, solicit petition signatures, or engage in activities that could interfere with voters' ability to freely cast their ballots within these specified areas. Law enforcement officers are authorized to stop prohibited activities, and violations can result in a gross misdemeanor charge. The bill frames these restrictions as a balanced approach that protects both political campaigns' First Amendment rights and voters' right to cast ballots without undue influence, with a particular focus on ensuring that parking lots serving election offices remain free from campaign signage and persuasive materials.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5684&Year=2025&Initiative=false