Skansi, John: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A.320 for failure to include sponsor address on political advertising mailer. (EY '21; Oct '21)

Case

#100349

Respondent

John Skansi

Complainant

Kara Suzanne Aley

Description

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has completed its review of the three complaints filed on October 31, November 1, and November 3, 2021. The complaints alleged that John Skansi, a 2021 candidate for City Council for the City of Gig Harbor, may have violated RCW 42.17A.320 for failure to include sponsor identification on written political advertisements and a television advertisement.

PDC staff reviewed the allegations; the applicable statutes, rules, and reporting requirements; and the response provided by the Respondent to determine whether the record supports a finding of one or more violations.

John Skansi was a first-time candidate in the 2021 election. It appears that the lack of sponsor ID on the mailer and flyer produced by Mr. Skansi were omitted due to his inexperience with PDC statutes and rules and possibly incorrect guidance given by PDC staff. In addition, the lack of sponsor ID on the flyer produced by a third party was the responsibility of Mr. Skansi before distribution but he was unaware of this obligation at the time.

Based on our findings staff has determined that, in this instance, failure to include sponsor identification on written political advertisements sponsored by the Respondent does not amount to a finding of a violation that warrants further investigation.

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, John Skansi will receive a formal written warning concerning failure to include sponsor identification on two political advertisements paid for by him and one advertisement produced by a third party but distributed by him. The formal written warning will include staff’s expectation that Mr. Skansi ensure that all future advertisements mailed or disseminated by him include the required sponsor identification information whether originally created by him or by a third party. The Commission will consider the formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules.

Based on this information, the PDC finds that no further action is warranted and has dismissed this matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1).

Disposition

Case Closed with Written Warning

Date Opened

November 01, 2021

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.320

Documents

• 100349 Skansi John Complaint 3.pdf
• 100349 Skansi John Warning - Respondent.pdf
• 100349 Skansi John Warning - Complainant.pdf
• 100349 Skansi John Response.pdf
• 100349 Skansi John Complaint.pdf