Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke’s bill to strengthen Washington’s election security was endorsed yesterday by the House State Government and Tribal Relations Committee, moving the proposal one step closer to a full House vote.

Senate Bill 5014 would expand the Secretary of State’s oversight of election equipment and platforms, require the disclosure of security breaches, and establish cybersecurity requirements for county election officials.

“These reforms are designed to protect voter integrity and ensure Washington’s election systems are safeguarded from cyber threats,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. ”With mail-in ballots, fortifying every step of the process is crucial to maintaining public confidence.”

The bill also requires state approval for election-related systems and mandates cybersecurity measures, including system partitioning, by July 1, 2027, unless an extension is granted.

“This legislation is intended to reinforce public trust and ensure Washington’s elections remain secure, transparent, and reliable. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and oversight, we are safeguarding our democratic process for future generations.”

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27. The last day to consider opposite house bills is April 16, by 5 p.m., except for initiatives and alternatives to initiatives, matters necessary to implement budgets, matters that affect state revenue, amendments, differences, and business related to the interim or closing the session.

For more information on Boehnke’s legislative work, visit mattboehnke.src.wastateleg.org.

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