PDC finds Bethel Citizens Committee failed to disclose 2019–2022 activity, imposes $600 fine with $350 suspended

Chair Leach of the Public Disclosure Commission found that Bethel Citizens Committee for School Support violated RCW reporting requirements and imposed a $600 fine, suspending $350 of it on the condition that all missing reports be filed or amended and the unsuspended $250 be paid within 30 days of the written order.

PDC enforcement staff presented a detailed account of missing and late filings. Staff said the committee registered on 10/13/2021 for the 2022 election year and selected full reporting, but failed to file or amend multiple required C3 and C4 reports. "We need them to file missing C4 reports disclosing $22,803.82 worth of contributions that were deposited in 2019, 2020, and 2022," the staff presenter stated, and explained there were also late pre‑election and monthly reports that deprived the public of timely disclosure.

Staff noted mitigating factors, including that the campaign appeared small and unsophisticated and the treasurer had been on FMLA, and said there was one prior enforcement matter resolved outside the five‑year statute of limitations. The Commission treated late pre‑election reports as an aggravating factor because they reduce timely public notice before elections.

"I am going to find that this committee violated 2 35 and 2 40 as described by Ms. Blacksmith in her testimony," Chair Leach said before announcing the penalty and the 30‑day compliance condition. The order requires the committee to file or amend the identified reports and pay the unsuspended portion of the fine within 30 days of the written order; otherwise the full fine becomes due.