The PDC is aware of an issue that is causing data on its website to load slowly. We have alerted the state’s Open Data vendor and are urging it to find the root cause. In the meantime, trying hitting the refresh button, or wait a few moments before trying your data query again.
Lund, Ben: Alleged Violations of RCW 42.17A.320 for lack of sponsor id on advertisement (EY23, Dec23)
Case
#146290
Respondent
Ben Lund
Complainant
Ryan Davey
Description
The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has completed its review of the complaint filed December 6, 2023. The complaint alleged an advertisement in the Spokane Valley Current lacked proper sponsor identification, and the entity sponsoring the advertisement may need to register with the Public Disclosure Commission as a Political Action Committee (PAC).
- Because Ben Lund is an individual using their own funds, they are not required to register as a PAC.
- Ben Lund was not required to report the advertisement as an independent expenditure because the amount was less than $1,000.
- Ben Lund also acknowledged they have reviewed PDC reporting requirements for both sponsor identification and independent expenditures.
Based on our findings, staff has determined that, in this instance, the failure include sponsor identification does not amount to a finding of a violation that warrants further investigation.
Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, Ben Lund will receive a formal written warning concerning the failure to include sponsor identification on political advertising. The formal written warning will include staff’s expectation Ben Lund, in the future, provide required sponsor identification on any political advertising. 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
December 18, 2023
Areas of Law
RCW 42.17A.320
Documents
Subscribe for updates
To subscribe to this case, enter your email address in the form below and click "Send confirmation link" button. You will be sent a secure link via email that will confirm your subscription.
An email containing a link to confirm your subscription to this case has been sent to {{ email }}.
If you do not receive an email within a few minutes, please check your junk mail or mail filters.
{{statusMessage}}