WA HB1573

Expands the timeframe for elected officials of counties, cities, towns, and special purpose districts to take their oath of office, allowing it to occur anytime between the final certification of the election and the day before the term begins

Replaces the previous requirement that limited oath-taking to either up to 10 days before assuming office or at the last regular meeting of the governing body before the winner assumes office

Applies to all local elected offices except school districts where property ownership is not a prerequisite for voting

School directors continue to begin their terms at the first official board meeting after election certification

Effective date: July 27, 2025; passed unanimously (House 93-0, Senate 48-0)