No on 2117: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A.320 for failure to provide proper sponsor identification on a piece of video advertising (EY24 SEP24)

Case

#159256

Respondent

No on 2117

Complainant

Dan Brady

Description

It appears that there were insufficient contrast areas behind the sponsor identification originally included on the 2024 No on 2117 Campaign videos. Staff found that, although the videos initially failed to include the required black/contrasting background, the identity of the sponsor as the Respondent’s committee was clear to the reader.

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

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, No on 2117 will receive a formal written warning concerning failure to include a complete sponsor identification on political advertisements. The formal written warning will include staff’s expectation that the committee and its members will review all future political advertisements to ensure that it includes the required sponsor identification prior to being made available to the general public. 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

September 13, 2024

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.320