Kim Harless: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A. 235, .240, and .320 for failure to timely and accurately report contributions and expenditures and failure to provide complete sponsor identification on campaign advertising (EY25 JUL25)

The complaint alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235 for failure to timely disclose contributions and expenditures on Cash Receipts Monetary Contributions (C-3) reports and RCW 42.17A.320 by failing to include proper sponsor identification on political advertising, specifically failure to include complete sponsor identification on a campaign website. 

Staff has determined that, in this instance, any violation that may have occurred was minor and has been cured. After consideration of the circumstances, further proceedings would not serve the purpose of this chapter. Under WAC 390-37-060, 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 information, the PDC has dismissed this matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1).

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, Kim Harless is receiving a formal written warning concerning the requirement to timely file C-3 reports and also to include complete sponsor identification on political advertising. PDC staff expect Kim Harless to timely file C-3 reports and include complete sponsor identification in the future. The Commission will consider this formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules.