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HCR 4409

Returning bills to their house of origin.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Fitzgibbon and 1 co-sponsor

Washington HCR 4409 establishes procedures for returning bills to their originating legislative chamber, fast-tracked through all readings in one day on March 7, 2024.

Filed with Secretary of State.
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Bill Summary · HCR 4409

Legislative bill overview

HCR 4409 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Washington State Legislature that directs bills to be returned to their house of origin under specified circumstances. The bill was fast-tracked through all three readings on a single day (March 7, 2024), with rules suspended to expedite passage. This is a procedural measure rather than substantive legislation creating new laws.

Why is this important

Concurrent resolutions establish rules and procedures for how the legislature operates. This particular measure affects the mechanics of bill movement between the House and Senate, which can influence legislative workflow, timing, and the ability to pass or block legislation. Procedural changes can have downstream effects on which bills receive consideration and when.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency on specifics: The bill's actual provisions aren't detailed in the available information, making it unclear what exact circumstances trigger return of bills and whether this advantages one chamber over another
  • Fast-track passage: The same-day passage with suspended rules prevented typical deliberation and public comment periods, raising questions about whether adequate review occurred
  • Procedural advantage: Depending on implementation, returning bills to origin could strategically benefit one party or chamber in managing the legislative agenda

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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