BILL · 2023–24 SESSION

SB 5209: Universal civic duty voting

Establishing universal civic duty voting.

Summary

Requires that every eligible voter either register to vote or obtain a waiver from the obligation to register to vote.
Provides that no excuse is required for a waiver from the obligation to register to vote.
Requires that every registered voter return a ballot for each primary and general election, while clarifying that blank ballots may be returned.
Directs the Secretary of State to implement a plan for expanded voter registration, including a statewide education plan on civic duty voting.

From the Senate Bill Report (SB 5209), written by the Legislature's nonpartisan staff. Read the full report ↗

Did not pass Did not pass · died in committee

AN ACT Relating to establishing universal civic duty voting;

No recorded floor votes. This measure never reached a floor vote.

Bill numbers restart every two years, so the same number is a different bill in each session.

SB 5209 (2025–26) L&I law enforcement · Enacted · Chapter 28, Laws of 2025
SB 5209 (2021–22) Crisis response services · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5209 (2019–20) Retail pet stores · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5209 (2017–18) Gold star license plates · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor
SB 5209 (2015–16) Ag crop protection products · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor
SB 5209 (2013–14) Money transmitters · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor
SB 5209 (2011–12) Water right beneficial use · Did not pass · died in committee
SB 5209 (2009–10) Civil commitment witnesses · Did not pass · stalled on the Senate floor