Yakima Warns: No Politics Within 100 Feet of Courthouse

As the countdown to election day continues, Yakima County Auditor Charles Ross is reminding residents to keep their political expressions in check when visiting the Yakima County Courthouse.

JUST LEAVE THOSE HATS AND SHIRTS AT HOME

With just days remaining until the election, Ross emphasizes that state law strictly prohibits any display of support for candidates or issues within designated areas near voting locations. Under Washington State law, individuals entering the Yakima County Courthouse — which serves as a polling place — must refrain from wearing campaign merchandise or showing promotional signage that supports any candidate or ballot measure. This regulation is in effect from 18 days prior to the election through the election day itself.

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IT'S IN STATE LAW BELIEVE IT OR NOT

Ross says “If you are spotted wearing a campaign hat, shirt, or carrying signs within 100 feet of the courthouse entrance, you will be asked by security to remove those items or leave them behind before you're allowed to proceed.” The legal stipulation, outlined in RCW 29A.84.510, aims to create a neutral environment to ensure all voters can access the election process freely. Violations of this law are considered gross misdemeanors, potentially leading to prosecution and fines.

THE STATE LAW IS SPECIFIC

The law specifies that individuals cannot engage in activities such as persuading others on how to vote, distributing campaign materials, or obstructing entrances to voting centers. Furthermore, even conversations or activities conducted within a certain range—specifically within 100 feet of voting centers or 25 feet of ballot drop boxes—are restricted if they could be overheard.

WATCH FOR THE WARNING SIGNS

To prevent misunderstandings, the Yakima County Auditor’s Office has posted signs at strategic points outside the courthouse and other voting locations throughout the county, warning voters of the restrictions in place.