Type Advisory Opinion 
Date 5/20/2004 
Number 04-02 
Topic Normal and Regular Conduct - Voter Registration 
Respondent  
Issue/Question
May a legislator mail unsolicited voter registration materials at public expense, urging constituents to register absentee and return form to Secretary of State?
Summary
No.  The Act prohibits use of public resources to directly or indirectly assist a campaign.  Legislators have greater flexibility under the Act to respond to a constituent than to initiate communication.  Exceptions to the prohibition on use of public resources are strictly construed.  While some officials have direct statutory responsibilities associated with voter reigistration, it is not "normal and regular conduct" for legislators to use public resources to get out the vote.  RCW 42.52.180.
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