Randi Knott: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A.320 for failure to provide sponsor identification on campaign advertising (EY25 OCT25)

Case

#180403

Respondent

Randi Knott

Complainant

Robert Anderson

Description

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) completed its review of a complaint filed with the PDC. 

Applicable Laws and Rules

  • RCW 42.17A.320(3) sets forth the size and placement requirements for identifying the sponsor of political advertising. Subsection (a) states that the font size used in the sponsor identification statement for a written advertisement or communication directed at more than one voter must be at least the larger of the following: 1) ten-point type; or 2) ten percent of the largest type used in the advertisement.
  • Yard signs were exempt from the requirement until June 2024.
  • In 2024, the PDC granted a one-time exemption to yard signs printed prior to the effective date of the law. Starting in 2025, all yard signs, regardless of when they were printed, must meet all requirements of RCW 42.17A.320

Background and Findings

  • The Respondent registered with the PDC on May 5, 2025, under the Mini Reporting option, for position of County Charter Review Commissioner for Clark County.
  • Upon review of the evidence, the yard signs indicated in the complaint lacked the address of the candidates campaign.
  • The Respondent has not been warned, admitted to a violation, or found in violation in the 2025 election cycle.

Summary and Resolution

Having reviewed the complaint and the supporting evidence, PDC staff has determined that you appear to have violated RCW 42.17A. After consideration of all the circumstances, further proceedings would not serve the purposes of the Fair Campaign Practices Act. Under WAC 390-37-070, the executive director, at any time prior to consideration by the Commission, may dismiss a complaint which on its face, or as shown by investigation, provides reason to believe that a violation has occurred, but also shows that the respondent is in substantial compliance with the relevant statutes or rules, or shows that formal enforcement action is not warranted. 

Based on this, the PDC has dismissed this matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1) and WAC 390-37-060(1)(d). PDC staff is reminding you about the importance of timely reporting and sponsor identification on political advertising. You are expected to comply with PDC statutes and rules in the future.

Disposition

Case Closed with Reminder

Date Opened

October 21, 2025

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.320

Documents

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