The following entities may NOT give to legislative or state executive office candidates, to a state official against whom recall charges have been filed or to a political committee expecting to make expenditures supporting the recall of the official:

  • a corporation or business entity not doing business in Washington State*;
  • a labor union with fewer than ten members who reside in Washington State; and
  • a political committee that has not received, during the preceding 180 days, contributions of $25 or more from at least ten Washington State registered voters.

*By administrative rule, a corporation or business is "doing business in Washington State" if it conducts continuous and substantial activities in this state so that it acquires a legal obligation.  For example: registering as a foreign corporation in Washington, operating one or more business locations in Washington, hiring employees to work in this state or purchasing supplies or services from other Washington businesses.

Federal election law prohibits candidates and political committees in this country from receiving contributions from foreign nationals (individuals, corporations or other foreign business entities). However, persons having "green cards" may contribute to elections in the United States. 

Federally chartered banks, federal contractors, corporations, unions and insurance companies should consult their legal advisors to determine whether other state or federal statutes prohibit their making contributions.

According to Washington law, "no insurer or fraternal benefit society doing business in this state shall directly or indirectly pay or use, or offer, consent, or agree to pay or use any money or thing of value for or in aid of any candidate for the office of insurance commissioner; nor for reimbursement or indemnification of any person for money or property so used." (emphasis added) [RCW 48.30.110]