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Bill

HB 1339

Shifting general elections for local governments to even-numbered years to increase voter participation.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Alvarado and 29 co-sponsors

Washington bill moves local government elections to even-numbered years to boost voter participation by coinciding with higher-turnout federal elections.

Returned to Rules Committee for second reading.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1339

Legislative bill overview

HB 1339 would shift general elections for local governments in Washington state from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years (when federal elections occur). The bill aims to increase voter participation by consolidating local elections with higher-turnout presidential and midterm election cycles.

Why is this important

Local elections typically see significantly lower voter turnout than federal elections—often 20-30% versus 50%+ in presidential years. By aligning local elections with federal voting cycles, the bill could increase participation in school board, city council, and other local races, potentially giving elected officials stronger mandates. This also affects which issues and candidates receive voter attention and resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and logistics: Moving elections requires updating voter rolls, ballot preparation, and poll operations; consolidation could strain election administration in some jurisdictions
  • Local control concerns: Some argue communities should set their own election timing; opponents may view this as state overreach into local governance
  • Candidate recruitment and campaign dynamics: Shifting timing changes when local candidates can campaign and compete for voter attention, potentially favoring well-funded campaigns that can compete alongside federal races
  • Incumbent advantage: Moving elections to even years may advantage incumbents if local issues get overshadowed by federal campaigns, or disadvantage them if local spending becomes an issue during federal focus

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

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