Section 390-05-290. Political advertising definitions.

(1) "Mass communication" means a communication intended to reach a large audience through any of the following methods:

(a) Advertising displays, newspaper advertising, billboards, signs;

(b) Brochures, articles, tabloids, fliers, periodicals;

(c) Radio or television presentations;

(d) Sample ballots (see WAC 390-17-030);

(e) Online or other electronic transmission methods;

(f) One hundred or more letters, e-mails, text messages or similar communications that are identical or substantially similar in nature, directed to specific recipients, and sent within a thirty-day period; and

(g) Other mass means of disseminating political advertising, unless excluded by chapter 42.17A RCW or commission rule.

(2) "Online" means disseminating through a network of interconnected computers or devices, such as the internet or similar systems enabling electronic dissemination or exchange of communications. Examples include, but are not limited to, internet web sites, web-based social media (such as Facebook, Twitter, and other electronic publishing platforms), e-mails, and text messages.

(3) "Political advertising" is defined under RCW 42.17A.005 to include a mass communication used for the purpose of appealing, directly or indirectly, for votes or for financial or other support or opposition in any election campaign.

(4) Political advertising does not include letters to the editor, news or feature articles, editorial comment or replies thereto in a regularly published newspaper, periodical, or on a radio or television broadcast where payment for the space or time is not normally required.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 42.17A.110 and 42.17A.320. WSR 13-12-017, § 390-05-290, filed 5/24/13, effective 6/24/13. Statutory Authority: RCW 42.17.370(1). WSR 85-15-020 (Order 85-03), § 390-05-290, filed 7/9/85.]

RCW 42.17A.110 and 42.17A.320. WSR 13-12-017, § 390-05-290, filed 5/24/13, effective 6/24/13. Statutory Authority: RCW 42.17.370(1). WSR 85-15-020 (Order 85-03), § 390-05-290, filed 7/9/85.

Rules

390-17-030,