Election law changes? Our legislation tracker’s got you. Check it out!

Laws governing local ballot measures in Washington: Difference between revisions

From Ballotpedia
Jump to: navigation, search
No edit summary
No edit summary
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Local ballot law vnt}}{{tnr}}
{{Local ballot law vnt}}
6 charter counties and approximately 55 cities in Washington have an [[initiative]] process for local ballot measures.


This article sets out the '''laws governing <u>local</u> ballot measures in Washington'''. It explains:
This page describes the state constitutional provisions and statutes that govern local ballot measures in Washington. Jurisdictions often establish additional rules within the parameters of state law; those can be found in local ordinances and home-rule charters.


* Which local units of government make the initiative process available to residents.
<div style="font-size:1em; line-height: 1.4;">Explore the links below for more information:</div>
* How and whether local units of government, including school districts, can refer local ballot measures (such as school bond propositions) to the ballot.
* [[#Law|Laws addressing local ballot measure powers in Washington]]
* An overview of [[laws governing recall in Washington|laws governing local recall elections]].
* [[#General|General requirements for local ballot measures]]
* [[#Initiatives|Rules for citizen-initiated local ballot measures]]
* [[#Referrals|Rules for referred local ballot measures]]


==Types of local government==
==Law==
The Washington Constitution and the Revised Code of Washington establish the rules that govern local ballot measures in the state.


{{Washingtontypeslocalgovt}}
* '''Constitution''': [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 4|Article XI, Section 4]] and [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 10|Article XI, Section 10]]
* '''Statutes''': [https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35.22.120 Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 35.22, Section 35.22.120], [https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35.22.200 Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 35.22, Section 35.22.200], [https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35A.11.080 Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 35A.11, Section 35A.11.080], [https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35A.11.100 Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 35A.11, Section 35A.11.100], [https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35A.29.170 Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 35A.29, Section 35A.29.170]


==School districts==
==General==
:: ''See also: [[School bond and tax elections in Washington]]''
The following outlines the general rules that govern local ballot measures in Washington, including both citizen-initiated measures and referred measures from local government bodies.
Washington, along with ten other states, possesses a State Constitution that establishes a limit to the amount of debt that may be incurred. Washington mandates that school districts must obtain voter approval to bring in more than one percent for general debt or five percent for capital outlays. Washington State requires a election for all bond issues exceeding three-eights of one percent of taxable property. The state's bond issue laws treat school districts and other forms of municipal government identically and therefore requires a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' super-majority and a 40% voter turnout for approval. Bond issues can be used for capital improvements and new construction only. School districts cannot use bonds to retire debt or fund other obligations.


==Other taxing districts==
*'''Election timing''': Election timing for each municipality and county depends on their local charters, as authorized by [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 4|Article XI, Section 4]] and [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 10|Article XI, Section 10]] of the Washington Constitution.
* '''Vote requirements''':
** A simple majority is required to pass both charter amendments in both counties and cities.
** Washington's bond issue laws treat school districts and other forms of municipal government identically and therefore requires a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' super-majority and a 40% voter turnout for approval.
** [[Article VII, Washington State Constitution|Article VII]] of the Washington Constitution requires a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' majority vote to authorize bonds and tax levies requiring voter approval in any taxing district other than school districts. This includes municipalities, fire districts, counties and any other political subdivision. In school districts, tax levy measures can be approved by a simple majority with no minimum voter turnout requirement, but bond measures must still be approved by a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s'''. Moreover, the number of voters in any election requiring a 3/5<sup>th</sup>s super-majority must be at least equal to '''40%''' of the voters in the last general election.<ref>[http://www.leg.wa.gov/LAWSANDAGENCYRULES/Pages/constitution.aspx Washington Constitution, ''See Article VII, section 2(a)'']</ref>
*** However, districts imposing an EMS property tax levy of not more than $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for six or ten continuous years need only receive a majority approval. Such a tax imposed permanently must still be approved by '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' of voters with a 40% voter turnout.<ref>[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=84.52.069 RCW 84.52.069]</ref>
** Under [http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=52.18.050 RCW 52.18.050], a county fire protection district can impose a benefit charge with a 60% majority vote from the residents of that district. No voter turnout percentage is required.<ref>[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=52.18.050 RCW 52.18.050]</ref>


The [[Article VII, Washington State Constitution|Washington Constitution]] requires a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' majority vote to authorize bonds and tax levies requiring voter approval in any taxing district other than school districts. This includes municipalities, fire districts, counties and any other political subdivision. In school districts, tax levy measures can be approved by a simple majority with no minimum voter turnout requirement, but bond measures must still be approved by a '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s'''. Moreover, the number of voters in any election requiring a 3/5<sup>th</sup>s super-majority must be at least equal to '''40%''' of the voters in the last general election.<ref>[http://www.leg.wa.gov/LAWSANDAGENCYRULES/Pages/constitution.aspx Washington Constitution, ''See Article VII, section 2(a)'']</ref>
* '''Required ballot measures''':
**Washington mandates that school districts must obtain voter approval to bring in more than one percent for general debt or five percent for capital outlays. Washington State requires a election for all bond issues exceeding three-eights of one percent of taxable property.


However, districts imposing an EMS property tax levy of not more than $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for six or ten continuous years need only receive a majority approval. Such a tax imposed permanently must still be approved by '''3/5<sup>th</sup>s (60%)''' of voters with a 40% voter turnout.<ref>[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=84.52.069 RCW 84.52.069]</ref>
* '''Types of cities''':
** '''First class cities''':  [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 10|Article XI, Section 10]] of the Washington Constitution grants first class cities the authority to adopt a charter, and RCW 35.22.200 provides that a first class city charter may provide for the initiative and referendum process by the people. All of the ten first class cities have adopted the powers of initiative and referendum:<ref name=chapter3522200>[https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?Cite=35.22.200 ''Washington State Legislature'', "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35.22, Section 35.22.200]</ref><ref name=mrsc>[https://mrsc.org/getmedia/18593ba0-fa89-4776-84dc-3dcab86b3449/Initiative-And-Referendum-Guide.pdf.aspx?ext=.pdf ''Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington (MRSC)'', "Initiative and Referendum Guide for Washington Cities and Charter Counties," June 2024]</ref>{{colbegin|2}}
*** [[Aberdeen, Washington|Aberdeen]]
*** [[Bellingham, Washington|Bellingham]]
*** [[Bremerton, Washington|Bremerton]]
*** [[Everett, Washington|Everett]]
*** [[Richland, Washington|Richland]]
*** [[Seattle, Washington|Seattle]]
*** [[Spokane, Washington|Spokane]]
*** [[Tacoma, Washington|Tacoma]]
*** [[Vancouver, Washington|Vancouver]]
*** [[Yakima, Washington|Yakima]]{{colend}}
*** '''Second class cities''': Second class cities do not have the authority to establish initiative and referendum powers. The governing bodies of second class cities can, however, submit non-binding, advisory ballots to the voters.<ref name=mrsc/>
*** '''Commission cities''': Commission cities are automatically granted the powers of initiative and referendum. As of 2017, there are no remaining commission cities in the state.<ref name =chapter3517>[https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=35.17&full=true#35.17.220 ''Washington State Legislature'', "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35.17]</ref>
*** '''Code cities''': Code cities are not automatically granted the powers of initiative and referendum and must formally adopt them. The process requires a petition with signatures equal to at least 50% of the votes cast in the last general municipal election requesting their adoption, and is subject to a referendum vote if an opposing petition with at least 10% of the votes cast at the last general municipal election is filed within 90 days after the publication of the resolution. If no opposing petition is filed within the 90-day period, then the city council must enact an ordinance formally adopting the powers of initiative and referendum. As of September 2022, 56 code cities have adopted these powers:<ref name=mrsc/>{{colbegin|4}}
**** [[Battle Ground, Washington|Battle Ground]]
**** [[Bellevue, Washington|Bellevue]]
**** [[Black Diamond, Washington|Black Diamond]]
**** [[Blaine, Washington|Blaine]]
**** [[Bonney Lake, Washington|Bonney Lake]]
**** [[Bothell, Washington|Bothell]]
**** [[Brier, Washington|Brier]]
**** [[Burien, Washington|Burien]]
**** [[Camas, Washington|Camas]]
**** [[Chelan, Washington|Chelan]]
**** [[Cheney, Washington|Cheney]]
**** [[Clarkston, Washington|Clarkston]]
**** [[Des Moines, Washington|Des Moines]]
**** [[Edgewood, Washington|Edgewood]]
**** [[Edmonds, Washington|Edmonds]]
**** [[Ellensburg, Washington|Ellensburg]]
**** [[Federal Way, Washington|Federal Way]]
**** [[Ferndale, Washington|Ferndale]]
**** [[Gig Harbor, Washington|Gig Harbor]]
**** [[Goldendale, Washington|Goldendale]]
**** [[Issaquah, Washington|Issaquah]]
**** [[Kahlotus, Washington|Kahlotus]]
**** [[Kalama, Washington|Kalama]]
**** [[Kelso, Washington|Kelso]]
**** [[Kenmore, Washington|Kenmore]]
**** [[Kent, Washington|Kent]]
**** [[La Center, Washington|La Center]]
**** [[Lakewood, Washington|Lakewood]]
**** [[Lake Forest Park, Washington|Lake Forest Park]]
**** [[Longview, Washington|Longview]]
**** [[Lynnwood, Washington|Lynnwood]]
**** [[Mercer Island, Washington|Mercer Island]]
**** [[Mill Creek, Washington|Mill Creek]]
**** [[Monroe, Washington|Monroe]]
**** [[Mountlake Terrace, Washington|Mountlake Terrace]]
**** [[Mukilteo, Washington|Mukilteo]]
**** [[North Bend, Washington|North Bend]]
**** [[Ocean Shores, Washington|Ocean Shores]]
**** [[Olympia, Washington|Olympia]]
**** [[Port Angeles, Washington|Port Angeles]]
**** [[Puyallup, Washington|Puyallup]]
**** [[Rainier, Washington|Rainier]]
**** [[Redmond, Washington|Redmond]]
**** [[Renton, Washington|Renton]]
**** [[Ridgefield, Washington|Ridgefield]]
**** [[Sammamish, Washington|Sammamish]]
**** [[SeaTac, Washington|SeaTac]]
**** [[Sequim, Washington|Sequim]]
**** [[Shoreline, Washington|Shoreline]]
**** [[Spokane Valley, Washington|Spokane Valley]]
**** [[Tukwila, Washington|Tukwila]]
**** [[Tumwater, Washington|Tumwater]]
**** [[Walla Walla, Washington|Walla Walla]]
**** [[Washougal, Washington|Washougal]]
**** [[Wenatchee, Washington|Wenatchee]]
**** [[Woodinville, Washington|Woodinville]]{{colend}}


Under [http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=52.18.050 RCW 52.18.050] a county fire protection district can impose a benefit charge with a 60% majority vote from the residents of that district. No voter turnout percentage is required.<ref>[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=52.18.050 RCW 52.18.050]</ref>
* '''Types of counties''':
** '''Commission counties''': If a county does not go through the charter process, it remains a commission form of government. Commission counties do not have the powers of initiative and referendum.
** '''Charter counties''': Article XI of the Washington Constitution grants counties the option to adopt a charter, which may also provide for the initiative and referendum process. The following seven counties have adopted a charter, with each adopting the powers of initiative and referendum:<ref name=mrsc/>{{colbegin|2}}
*** [[Clallam County, Washington|Clallam County]]
*** [[Clark County, Washington|Clark County]]
*** [[King County, Washington|King County]]
*** [[Pierce County, Washington|Pierce County]]
*** [[San Juan County, Washington|San Juan County]]
*** [[Snohomish County, Washington|Snohomish County]]
*** [[Whatcom County, Washington|Whatcom County]]{{colend}}


==Local recall rules==
==Initiatives==
{{lawshort}}
The following outlines the general rules that govern local citizen-initiated ballot measures in Washington.
The citizens of [[Washington]] are granted the authority to perform a [[recall campaigns|recall election]] by [[Article I, Washington State Constitution#Section 33|Sections 33 and 34 of Article I]] of the [[Washington State Constitution]] to all elective officers of the state of Washington except judges of courts of record.


A petition for recall must include a specified number of [[valid signatures]] from registered voters determined as a percentage of total votes cast for all candidates who ran for the office in the most recent election contest.  This amounts to:
* '''Authority''':  
:*25 percent for state officers, other than judges, senators and representatives; city officers of cities of the first class; school district boards in cities of the first class; county officers in counties of the first, second and third classes,
:*35 percent for officers of all other political subdivisions, cities, towns, townships, precincts, and school districts not otherwise mentioned; and state senators and representatives.


:: ''For additional detail, see: [[Laws governing recall in Washington]]''
* '''Signatures''':
** '''First class cities''': Each first class city has their own signature requirements for initiatives to be placed on the ballot:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Aberdeen: At least 25% of the qualified registered voters for the city voting during the last general municipal election.
*** Bellingham: At least 25% of the total number of votes cast during the last regular municipal election.
*** Bremerton: At least 20% of the votes cast during the last municipal general election for all candidates for the office of mayor.
*** Everett: At least 15% of the total number of votes cast during the last municipal general election.
*** Richland: At least 20% of the total votes cast during the last regular general election.
*** Seattle: At least 10% of the total number of votes cast for the office of mayor during the last municipal election.
*** Spokane: At least 15% of the total number of votes cast at thelast general municipal election.
***Tacoma: At least 10% of the total votes cast at the last council-manic election.
*** Vancouver: At least 15% of the number of votes cast at the last municipal general election.
*** Yakima: At least 20% of the total number of votes cast at the last preceding general city election.
** '''Code cities''': In code cities, a petition must contain the valid signatures of at least 15% of the total number of names of persons listed as registered voters within the city on the day of the last preceding city general election.<ref>[https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?Cite=35A.11.100 ''Washington State Legislature'', "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35A.11, Section 35A.11.100]
** '''Charter counties''': Each charter county has their own signature requirements for initiatives:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Clallam County: At least 10% of the number of votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
*** Clark County: At least 10% of the number of votes cast in the county in the last gubernatorial election.
*** King County: At least 10% of the votes cast in the county in the last election for county executive.
*** Pierce County: At least 10% of the registered voters who voted in the last election for county executive.
*** Snohomish County: At least 7% of the registered voters who voted in the last gubernatorial election.
*** San Juan County: At least 15% of the number of votes in the county from the last gubernatorial election.
*** Whatcom County: At least 15% of the number of votes in the county from the last general election.


==Campaign finance rules==
* '''Deadlines''':
:: ''See also: [[Campaign finance requirements for Washington ballot measures]]''
** '''First class cities''': Each first class city has their own deadline requirements for initiatives:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Aberdeen: At least 60 days before the next municipal general election.
*** Bellingham: At least 130 calendar days before the next November general election.
*** Bremerton: No deadline requirement for signature gathering.
*** Everett: No deadline requirement, except if the petition has more than 5% and less than 15% for the signature requirement, in which case the petition will be placed on the ballot if it was filed at least 45 days before the date fixed for the election.
*** Richland: No deadline requirement for signature gathering.
*** Seattle: Signatures must be gathered within a six-month period prior to filing.
*** Spokane: No deadline requirement for signature gathering.
***Tacoma: Signatures must be gathered within a 180 calendar days prior to filing.
*** Vancouver: Signatures must be gathered within a six-month period prior to filing.
*** Yakima: No deadline requirement for signature gathering.
** '''Code cities''': In code cities, signatures for initiatives need to be gathered within six months of filing.<ref name=mrsc/>
** '''Charter counties''': Each charter county has their own deadline requirements for initiatives:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Clallam County: Signatures must be gathered within 90 days from the date of registration.
*** Clark County: Signatures must be gathered within 120 days from the date of registration.
*** King County: The local government has 90 days to adopt the ordinance or place it on the ballot, but not less than 135 days after the petitions were filed.
*** Pierce County: Signatures must be gathered within 120 days from the date of registration.
*** Snohomish County: Signatures must be gathered within 90 days from the date of registration.
*** San Juan County: Signatures must be gathered within 120 days from the date of registration.
*** Whatcom County: Signatures must be gathered within 120 days from the date of registration.


==Initiative process availability==
==Referrals==
{{WashingtonlocalI&Ravailability}}
The following outlines the general rules that govern local referred ballot measures in Washington.
{{Local I&R book nav}}


==Authority==
* '''Authority''': [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 4|Article XI, Section 4]] and [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 10|Article XI, Section 10]]  of the Washington Constitution grants counties and first class cities the authority to submit charter amendments to a referendum, respectively.


===Constitution===
* '''Deadlines''':
*No explicit provision for local initiative.
** '''First class cities''': Each first class city has their own deadline requirements for referrals:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Aberdeen: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election within 45 days after the final publication of an ordinance to obtain the signatures of at elas t25% of the total number of votes cast during the last regular municipal election.
*** Bellingham: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if a petition with at least 8% of the entire votes cast for mayor during the last general municipal election is filed at least 30 days following the effective date.
*** Bremerton: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if a petition with at least 25% of the entire votes cast for mayor during the last general municipal election is filed before the effective date.
*** Everett: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if a petition with at least 10% of the entire votes cast during the last general municipal election is filed before the effective date.
*** Richland: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if a petition is filed within 30 days of first publication of the ordinance and receives signatures equal to 25% of the votes cast during the last regular general election.
*** Seattle: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if a petition is filed and signed by at least 8% of qualified electors of the entire vote cast for mayor during the last municipal election.
*** Spokane: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if, prior to its effective date, a petition is filed and signed by at least 10% of qualified electors of the entire vote cast during the last preceding general municipal election.
***Tacoma: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if, prior to its effective date, a petition is filed and signed by at least 10% of qualified electors of the entire vote cast during the last preceding council-manic election.
*** Vancouver: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if, within 30 days after enactment, a petition is filed with at least 10% of signatures equal to votes cast in the last municipal general election.
*** Yakima: An ordinance may be referred to a referendum election if, prior to its effective date, a petition is filed and signed by at least 10% of qualified electors of the entire vote cast during the last preceding general city election.
** '''Code cities''': In code cities, referendums need to be filed within 30 days of an ordinance passing, with exceptions for ordinances authorizing or repealing the levy of taxes; appropriating money; providing for or approving collective bargaining; providing for local improvement districts; and providing for the compensation of or working conditions of city employees. If no referendum is filed within that period, then the ordinance goes into effect.<ref>[https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35A.11.090 ''Washington State Legislature'', "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35A.11, Section 35A.11.090]</ref>
** '''Charter counties''': Each charter county has their own deadline requirements for referrals:<ref name=mrsc/>
*** Clallam County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 60 days to get the signatures of at least 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
*** Clark County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 45 days to get the signatures of at least 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
*** King County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.
*** Pierce County: Any voter has 15  days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 120 days to get the signatures of at least 8% of the votes cast in the last election for county executive.
*** Snohomish County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal with at least 100 signatures. Afterwards, a petitioner has 45 days to get the signatures of at least 5% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
*** San Juan County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.
*** Whatcom County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.


===Statutes===
==Laws governing local ballot measures in the U.S.==
*RCW 35.22.120 First class charter city mandated initiative for charter amendments
{{LawsLBMsMapNav}}
*RCW 35.22.200 First class charter city authority to adopt initiative for ordinances
*RCW 35A.11.080 Noncharter code city authority to adopt initiative for ordinances
*RCW 35A.11.100 Noncharter code city process requirements if adopt initiative
*RCW 35A.09.020 Charter code city (Kelso is the only one) mandated initiative for charter amendments
*RCW 35A.29.170, 35A.01.040 All code cities petition requirements
*RCW 35.17.220 - 35.17.360 Commission city (Shelton is the only one) mandated initiative


[[File:DocumentIcon.jpg|link=Ballot Measure Law]] <span style="color:#404040">'''''See law:''' [http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/ Wash. Rev. Code Title 35 and 35A]''</span>
==See also==
 
* [[Laws governing local ballot measures]]
==Initiative process features==
* [[Laws governing local ballot measures in Washington]]
 
* [[Local ballot measures, Washington]]
{| style="width:60%; background:#FFFDD0; margin-top:.1em; border:.5px solid #cccccc; solid;"
* [[Counties in Washington]]
|color:#000"|
|{{Collapsible list
  |framestyle = border:none; padding:0; text-align:left;
  |title=Code cities
  |<hr>
 
The initiative process for code cities (cities operating under the optional municipal code statutes) is governed by Wash. Rev. Code Chap. 35A-11.  Code cities must explicitly elect to exercise the initiative power for it to be available to citizens (RCW 35A-11-080).  If a city adopts the initiative power, the requirements are set by statute (RCW 35A-11-100).
 
[[File:DocumentIcon.jpg|link=Ballot Measure Law]] ''[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/ Wash. Rev. Code Title 35 and 35A]''
 
'''Subject matter restrictions:''' Initiated ordinances must be legislative in nature, not administrative.  Ordinances cannot exceed the authority of the city.
 
'''Petition appearance:''' Petition form requirements are governed by Wash. Rev. Code 35A.01.040, including the text of the proposed ordinance, a required warning, and the signer's address.
 
'''Signature requirement:''' 15% of the total number of names of persons listed as registered voters within the city on the day of the last preceding city general election. (Wash. Rev. Code 35A.11.100)
 
'''Circulation period:'''  Signatures followed by a date of signing which is more than six months prior to the date of filing of the petition shall be stricken. (RCW 35A.01.040(8))
 
'''Submitting signatures:''' Petitions are filed with the officer designated to receive the petition (usually the
city clerk).  The clerk transmits the petition to the county auditor for certification of signatures.  If an insufficiency is found, petitioners have 10 days to amend.  (RCW 35A.11.100, RCW 35-17-240 to 360)
 
'''Election procedure and results:''' After certification, the council has 20 days to pass the ordinance without alteration, or it shall cause to be called a special election to be held on the next election date, as provided in *RCW 29.13.020, that occurs not less than 45 days thereafter, for submission of the proposed ordinance without alteration, to a vote of the people unless a general election will occur within 90 days, in which event submission must be made on the general election ballot.  Majority vote passes the ordinance. (RCW 35A.11.100, RCW 35-17-240 to 360)
}}
|}<br>
 
{| style="width:60%; background:#FFFDD0; margin-top:.1em; border:.5px solid #cccccc; solid;"
|color:#000"|
|{{Collapsible list
  |framestyle = border:none; padding:0; text-align:left;
  |title=Charter amendment in first class cities
  |<hr>
 
Cities with a population over 10,000 may adopt a home rule charter under [[Article XI, Washington State Constitution#Section 10|Washington Constitution, Article XI, Sec. 10]]. The initiative process for amendments to city charters is governed by Washington Rev. Code Sec. 35-22-120 and 130.  ''Charters may contain additional requirements.''
 
[[File:DocumentIcon.jpg|link=Ballot Measure Law]] ''[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/ Wash. Rev. Code Chap. 35-22]''
 
'''Subject matter restrictions:''' Charters must be consistent with and subject to the Constitution and laws of the state (WA Const. Art. XI, Section 10)
 
'''Petition form:''' Petition form requirements are generally governed by Wash. Rev. Code 35.21.005, including the text of the proposed ordinance, a required warning, and the signer's address.
 
'''Signature requirement:''' 15% of the total number of votes cast at the last preceding general state election (Wash. Rev. Code 35.22.120)
 
'''Circulation period:'''  Signatures followed by a date of signing which is more than six months prior to the date of filing of the petition shall be stricken. (RCW 35.21.005(8))
 
'''Submitting signatures:''' Petitions are filed with the city clerk for certification. (RCW 35.22.130)
 
'''Election procedure and results:''' After certification, the proposed amendment shall be submitted to the voters at the next regular municipal election, occurring 30 days or more after said petition is filed.  Majority vote passes the amendment. (RCW 35.22.120)
}}
|}<br>
{{Local I&R map 50 states}}
==Initiative in the top 10 most populated cities==
Initiative is available in the top 10 most populated cities in Washington. Six are first-class charter cities that have authorized initiative for ordinances by charter.  The other four are code cities which have opted to permit the initiative process as provided by statute.
 
{{WAtop10citiesI&R}}


==Footnotes==
==Footnotes==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}
==External links==
* [https://docs.google.com/a/ballotpedia.org/document/d/1RbnGbXVyuTAK2zDrAgefboCZHVQEDiN3t6GVc6brgRk/edit Ballotpedia: Research document of Washington local I&R laws]
* [http://www.awcnet.org/ Association of Washington Cities]
* [http://www.mrsc.org/ Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington]
{{laws governing ballot measures}}
{{laws governing ballot measures}}
{{local ballot measures}}
{{local ballot measures}}


[[Category:Laws governing local ballot measures]]
[[Category:Laws governing local ballot measures]]
[[Category:Ballot measure law, Washington]]
[[Category:Laws_governing_local_ballot_measures]]
[[Category:Laws_governing_local_ballot_measures]]

Latest revision as of 17:47, 23 January 2026


BallotLaw final.png

Laws Governing Local Ballot Measures
State-by-State Laws
Alabama • Alaska • Arizona • Arkansas • California • Colorado • Connecticut • Delaware • Florida • Georgia • Hawaii • Idaho • Illinois • Indiana • Iowa • Kansas • Kentucky • Louisiana • Maine • Maryland • Massachusetts • Michigan • Minnesota • Mississippi • Missouri • Montana • Nebraska • Nevada • New Hampshire • New Jersey • New Mexico • New York • North Carolina • North Dakota • Ohio • Oklahoma • Oregon • Pennsylvania • Rhode Island • South Carolina • South Dakota • Tennessee • Texas • Utah • Vermont • Virginia • Washington • West Virginia • Wisconsin • Wyoming
Terms
Initiative • Home rule • General law city • Charter city • Petition • Initiative petition circulation periods • Circulator • Paid circulator • Volunteer circulator • Circulator affidavit • Signer • Valid signature • Forged signature • Fraudulent signature • Invalid signature • Electronic petition signature • Legislative alteration • Registered voter


This page describes the state constitutional provisions and statutes that govern local ballot measures in Washington. Jurisdictions often establish additional rules within the parameters of state law; those can be found in local ordinances and home-rule charters.

Explore the links below for more information:

Law

The Washington Constitution and the Revised Code of Washington establish the rules that govern local ballot measures in the state.

General

The following outlines the general rules that govern local ballot measures in Washington, including both citizen-initiated measures and referred measures from local government bodies.

  • Vote requirements:
    • A simple majority is required to pass both charter amendments in both counties and cities.
    • Washington's bond issue laws treat school districts and other forms of municipal government identically and therefore requires a 3/5ths (60%) super-majority and a 40% voter turnout for approval.
    • Article VII of the Washington Constitution requires a 3/5ths (60%) majority vote to authorize bonds and tax levies requiring voter approval in any taxing district other than school districts. This includes municipalities, fire districts, counties and any other political subdivision. In school districts, tax levy measures can be approved by a simple majority with no minimum voter turnout requirement, but bond measures must still be approved by a 3/5ths. Moreover, the number of voters in any election requiring a 3/5ths super-majority must be at least equal to 40% of the voters in the last general election.[1]
      • However, districts imposing an EMS property tax levy of not more than $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for six or ten continuous years need only receive a majority approval. Such a tax imposed permanently must still be approved by 3/5ths (60%) of voters with a 40% voter turnout.[2]
    • Under RCW 52.18.050, a county fire protection district can impose a benefit charge with a 60% majority vote from the residents of that district. No voter turnout percentage is required.[3]
  • Required ballot measures:
    • Washington mandates that school districts must obtain voter approval to bring in more than one percent for general debt or five percent for capital outlays. Washington State requires a election for all bond issues exceeding three-eights of one percent of taxable property.
  • Types of counties:
    • Commission counties: If a county does not go through the charter process, it remains a commission form of government. Commission counties do not have the powers of initiative and referendum.
    • Charter counties: Article XI of the Washington Constitution grants counties the option to adopt a charter, which may also provide for the initiative and referendum process. The following seven counties have adopted a charter, with each adopting the powers of initiative and referendum:[5]

Initiatives

The following outlines the general rules that govern local citizen-initiated ballot measures in Washington.

  • Authority:
  • Signatures:
    • First class cities: Each first class city has their own signature requirements for initiatives to be placed on the ballot:[5]
      • Aberdeen: At least 25% of the qualified registered voters for the city voting during the last general municipal election.
      • Bellingham: At least 25% of the total number of votes cast during the last regular municipal election.
      • Bremerton: At least 20% of the votes cast during the last municipal general election for all candidates for the office of mayor.
      • Everett: At least 15% of the total number of votes cast during the last municipal general election.
      • Richland: At least 20% of the total votes cast during the last regular general election.
      • Seattle: At least 10% of the total number of votes cast for the office of mayor during the last municipal election.
      • Spokane: At least 15% of the total number of votes cast at thelast general municipal election.
      • Tacoma: At least 10% of the total votes cast at the last council-manic election.
      • Vancouver: At least 15% of the number of votes cast at the last municipal general election.
      • Yakima: At least 20% of the total number of votes cast at the last preceding general city election.
    • Code cities: In code cities, a petition must contain the valid signatures of at least 15% of the total number of names of persons listed as registered voters within the city on the day of the last preceding city general election.Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag
    • Charter counties: Each charter county has their own deadline requirements for referrals:[5]
      • Clallam County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 60 days to get the signatures of at least 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
      • Clark County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 45 days to get the signatures of at least 10% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
      • King County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.
      • Pierce County: Any voter has 15 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal. Afterwards, a petitioner has 120 days to get the signatures of at least 8% of the votes cast in the last election for county executive.
      • Snohomish County: Any voter has 10 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal with at least 100 signatures. Afterwards, a petitioner has 45 days to get the signatures of at least 5% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.
      • San Juan County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.
      • Whatcom County: Any voter has 45 days after an ordinance is passed by the local government to file a referendum proposal.

Laws governing local ballot measures in the U.S.

Laws governing local ballot measures in the United States

As state laws govern ballot measures, the rules are different from state to state. Click on a state below to explore that state's laws on local ballot measures.

http://ballotpedia.org/Laws_governing_local_ballot_measures_in_STATE

See also

Footnotes

  1. ↑ Washington Constitution, See Article VII, section 2(a)
  2. ↑ RCW 84.52.069
  3. ↑ RCW 52.18.050
  4. ↑ Washington State Legislature, "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35.22, Section 35.22.200
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington (MRSC), "Initiative and Referendum Guide for Washington Cities and Charter Counties," June 2024
  6. ↑ Washington State Legislature, "Revised Code of Washington", Chapter 35.17
v • e
Local ballot measures
By state
A • Alabama • Alaska • Arizona • Arkansas • C • California • Colorado • Connecticut • D • Delaware • F • Florida • G • Georgia • H • Hawaii • I • Idaho • Illinois • Indiana • Iowa • K • Kansas • Kentucky • L • Louisiana • M • Maine • Maryland • Massachusetts • Michigan • Minnesota • Mississippi • Missouri • Montana • N • Nebraska • Nevada • New Hampshire • New Jersey • New Mexico • New York • North Carolina • North Dakota • O • Ohio • Oklahoma • Oregon • P • Pennsylvania • R • Rhode Island • S • South Carolina • South Dakota • T • Tennessee • Texas • U • Utah • V • Vermont • Virginia • W • Washington • West Virginia • Wisconsin • Wyoming
US map.png
By year
2026 • 2025 • 2024 • 2023 • 2022 • 2021 • 2020 • 2019 • 2018 • 2017 • 2016 • 2015 • 2014 • 2013 • 2012 • 2011 • 2010 • 2009 • 2008 • 2007 • 2006 • 2005 • 2004 • 2002
By topic
Retrieved from "https://ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php?title=Laws_governing_local_ballot_measures_in_Washington&oldid=11034483"