Washington Constitution Article VI - Elections and Elective Rights
Washington Constitution – Article VI: Elections and Elective Rights
Overview:
Article VI of the Washington State Constitution governs voting rights, qualifications of electors, voter registration, and the conduct of elections. It lays out who can vote, how elections are to be managed, and certain conditions under which voting rights can be restricted or restored.
Key Sections of Article VI:
Section 1: Qualifications of electors
Every U.S. citizen who is 18 years or older, has lived in Washington for 30 days, and meets registration requirements is eligible to vote.
People convicted of an infamous crime may lose the right to vote unless their rights are restored.
Section 1A: Restoration of voting rights
The legislature may enact laws for restoring voting rights automatically or conditionally to people who have lost them due to felony convictions.
Section 2: Privileged from arrest
Voters are privileged from arrest on election day except for felony, breach of peace, or treason.
Section 3: Elector not subject to military duty on election day
Voters cannot be required to perform military duty on election day, except in times of war or public danger.
Section 4: Residency requirements
Voters must reside in their precinct for at least 30 days before an election.
Section 5: School and county taxes
The right to vote in school or tax-related elections may be limited to those who are taxpayers in that district, as per legislative provisions.
Section 6: Mental incompetents and felons
Individuals declared mentally incompetent by a court or convicted of infamous crimes may be disqualified from voting, but laws may allow for the restoration of rights.
Section 7: Registration required
Voter registration is mandatory, and the legislature determines the registration process.
Summary:
Washington’s Constitution ensures broad voting rights, while allowing the legislature to regulate registration and restoration of rights for individuals with criminal convictions or mental incompetence. It upholds voter protections and clarifies the qualifications needed to participate in elections.
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