Franklin County Democratic Central Committee: Alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235 & .240 by failing to timely & accurately report contributions & expenditures, and disclose sufficient in-kind contribution details on reports. (EY '19-EY '23; Aug '23)

Case

#141453

Respondent

Franklin County Democrats

Complainant

Glen Morgan

Description

This case alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235 & .240 by failing to timely & accurately report contributions & expenditures for election years 2019-2023; and RCW 42.17A.235 & .240 by failing to disclose sufficient in-kind contribution details on reports for election years 2019-2023.

PDC staff reviewed the allegations and evidence submitted; the applicable statutes, rules, and reporting requirements; the response provided by Franklin County Democratic Central Committee (the “Respondent”); the applicable PDC reports filed by the Respondent; and other relevant information to determine whether the record supports a finding of one or more violations.

Based on the attached findings, staff has determined that, in this instance, the Respondent’s failure to timely and accurately file C-3 and C-4 reports for election years 2019-2023 does not amount to a violation that warrants further investigation.

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, Franklin County Democratic Central Committee received a formal written warning concerning its failure to timely file Campaign Summary Receipts & Expenditures reports (C-4 reports) and Cash Receipts, Monetary Contributions reports (C-3 reports). The formal written warning included staff’s expectation that Franklin County Democratic Central Committee timely and accurately file all required reports of contributions and expenditures in the future. The Commission will consider the formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules.

PDC staff also reminded Franklin County Democratic Central Committee about the importance of 1) disclosing the name and address of the vendor from whom a contributor purchased an item or service that is given to the committee as an in-kind contribution (on C-4 reports); and 2) submitting amended reports within 21 days of the original reports, when possible, in the future in accordance with PDC laws and rules or guidance.

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

August 25, 2023

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.235, RCW 42.17A.240

Documents

• 141453 Franklin County Democratic Central Committee Complaint.pdf
• 141453 Franklin Co Dem Initial Hearing Results (Respondent).pdf
• 141453 Franklin Co Dem Initial Hearing Results (Complainant).pdf
• 141453 Franklin Co Dem Central Comm Warning Letter.pdf
• 141453 Frankln Co Democratic Central Comm Response.pdf