Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2183

Introduced
1/8/24  

Caption

Prohibiting elected officials from including their name on remittances resulting from a lawsuit.

Impact

The impact of HB 2183 would be significant as it alters the interaction between elected officials and their legal liabilities. By establishing this prohibition, the bill aims to clarify accountability for the actions of public officials and promote ethical standards in government. State laws regarding public transparency and the financial conduct of elected representatives would be strengthened. Moreover, the bill aligns with broader efforts to instill trust in public institutions, where citizens can be assured that elected officials are held to high ethical standards regarding financial matters.

Summary

House Bill 2183 aims to prohibit elected officials from including their names on remittances resulting from lawsuits. This legislation is designed to enhance transparency and accountability within the legal process involving government officials. The intent behind this bill is to treat public officials with the same scrutiny as private individuals when it comes to financial dealings and litigations, thereby mitigating potential conflicts of interest and ensuring that taxpayer money is spent appropriately.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2183 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents, who believe that the bill is a step toward greater accountability in government. Advocates argue that this measure will help restore faith in public institutions by ensuring that elected officials cannot personally benefit from legal actions against them without proper scrutiny. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on the privacy rights of elected officials and how this requirement could complicate legal processes around lawsuits involving public officials.

Contention

Debates regarding HB 2183 may arise around the balance between public accountability and personal privacy. Opponents might argue that the bill could lead to unnecessary scrutiny of personal financial matters of public officials, potentially creating an atmosphere of distrust. There may also be questions about implementation, such as how this prohibition would be enforced and whether it would effectively deter ethical violations among elected officials or merely serve as a symbolic gesture.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2060

Prohibiting elected officials and their spouses from holding employment or any beneficial interest in private entities.

WA HB1967

Excluding any person who is convicted of a hit and run resulting in death from being eligible for a first-time offender waiver.

WA HB1074

Excluding any person who is convicted of a hit and run resulting in death from being eligible for a first-time offender waiver.

WA HB1031

Mitigating the impact of rising school facility temperatures resulting from climate change.

WA HB2198

Mitigating the impact of rising school facility temperatures resulting from climate change.

WA HB1844

Creating a private right of action for harm from violations of the state Constitution or state law by elected and appointed officials.

WA HB1853

Making certain corrective changes resulting from the enactment of chapter 182, Laws of 2022 (transportation resources).

WA HB1139

Addressing harassment of election officials.

WA LB5

Provide for compensability under Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act for mental injuries resulting from workplace violence

WA SB5743

Making certain nonsubstantive, corrective changes resulting from enactment of chapter 182, Laws of 2022 (transportation resources).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.