Lawmakers Move To Replace State Auditor

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — In response to the upcoming leave of indicted state auditor Troy Kelley, two lawmakers have introduced a bill for the upcoming special legislative session that would allow the governor to appoint a replacement when an elected official takes a leave of absence.

House Bill 2249 was introduced Tuesday by Republican Reps. Drew Stokesbary and Drew MacEwen. Kelley has refused to resign, but says he will take a temporary leave of absence starting Friday. Gov. Jay Inslee has said that leave will be unpaid.

Current law only allows the governor to appoint a replacement once an office is declared 'vacant,' which can only occur if certain situations, including if an official dies, resigns, or is convicted of a felony. The proposal would add "leave of absence from duties that is not due to medical or health-related reasons, or military obligations" to the list.