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WA HB2259
Bill
Status
1/12/2026
Primary Sponsor
Sharlett Mena
Click for details
AI Summary
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Prohibits paying signature gatherers based on the number of signatures collected for initiative or referendum petitions, though allows compensation not tied directly or indirectly to signature counts
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Requires sponsors to collect at least 1,000 valid voter signatures before filing a proposed initiative or referendum with the secretary of state, with signatures verified prior to ballot title drafting
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Authorizes citizen enforcement lawsuits against sponsors or signature-gathering entities that violate the per-signature compensation ban, with civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation
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Allows prevailing citizens to recover attorney fees and costs, while defendants may recover fees if the court finds the lawsuit was frivolous or brought in bad faith
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Amends RCW 29A.72.010, 29A.72.020, and 29A.72.030 to incorporate the new filing requirements and signature verification procedures
Legislative Description
Protecting the integrity of the state initiative and referendum process by requiring a demonstration of support before issuance of a ballot measure title and authorizing citizen actions for certain signature gatherer compensation violations.
Last Action
Public hearing in the House Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations at 1:30 PM.
1/21/2026