Washington State Supreme Court Exempts Talk-Show Hosts from Campaign Finance Requirements

On April 26, the Washington State Supreme Court unanimously ruled that when radio talk show hosts support an initiative on their show, they are not subject to campaign disclosure requirements. The lower court had ruled that since two radio talk show hosts had vigorously supported the “No New Gas Tax” initiative, their commentary constituted a contribution to the organization supporting that initiative. The State Supreme Court construed the state’s campaign law to mean that the talk show commentary falls under the “press” exemption. The case is San Juan County v No New Gas Tax, 77966-0. Thanks to Brad Smith for this news.


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