SB5373 proposes allowing local governments in Washington to hold general elections in even-numbered years to increase voter participation.

SB5373 amends Washington's election laws to provide local governments the option to conduct general elections in even-numbered years. The bill argues that moving elections to even-numbered years will increase voter turnout, particularly among younger voters, working families, and people with disabilities. Local governments can transition to even-year elections by adopting an ordinance or policy. If a jurisdiction repeals the ordinance or policy, it must transition back to odd-year elections by electing officials to shorter transitional terms.

SB5373 proposes allowing local governments in Washington to hold general elections in even-numbered years to increase voter participation.

SB5373 amends Washington's election laws to provide local governments the option to conduct general elections in even-numbered years. The bill argues that moving elections to even-numbered years will increase voter turnout, particularly among younger voters, working families, and people with disabilities. Local governments can transition to even-year elections by adopting an ordinance or policy. If a jurisdiction repeals the ordinance or policy, it must transition back to odd-year elections by electing officials to shorter transitional terms.