Shifts local government elections in Washington to even-numbered years to boost voter participation.

The bill proposes shifting general elections for local governments in Washington to even-numbered years, aiming to increase voter participation. Currently, local elections in Washington are held in odd-numbered years, with participation averaging around 40.5 percent. In contrast, even-numbered year elections average around 80 percent participation. The bill allows cities, towns, and special purpose districts to transition to even-numbered year elections by adopting an ordinance or policy, with a required public hearing and notice to the county.

Shifts local government elections in Washington to even-numbered years to boost voter participation.

The bill proposes shifting general elections for local governments in Washington to even-numbered years, aiming to increase voter participation. Currently, local elections in Washington are held in odd-numbered years, with participation averaging around 40.5 percent. In contrast, even-numbered year elections average around 80 percent participation. The bill allows cities, towns, and special purpose districts to transition to even-numbered year elections by adopting an ordinance or policy, with a required public hearing and notice to the county.