Democratic state lawmakers in Washington introduced a bill that would make it illegal for corporations to engage in political speech, which would likely set off a major First Amendment challenge if passed.
State Sens. Bob Hasegawa and Mike Chapman introduced Senate Bill 6358 earlier this month, which would prohibit corporations from funding campaigns or ballot measures. Those who do not comply with the measure would face stiff penalties.
Those supporting the bill argue it is essential for curbing corporate influence in political campaigns. But it goes further than simple funding.
Under the bill, corporations, nonprofits, and LLCS would be barred from participating in “election activity” and ballot measure activity.” Actions that fit into these categories include contributions made “to directly or indirectly support or oppose” candidates, political parties, or ballot measures. Corporations would not be allowed to donate to a ballot campaign and nonprofits couldn’t spend money to persuade supporters to back or oppose a ballot initiative.
The bill says that all corporate powers previously granted under Washington law are revoked, and corporations only have the powers explicitly re-granted by statute.
— aviel (@aviel) March 9, 2026
This is basically resetting corporate authority in state law.
WTF ARE WE EVEN DOING GUYS https://t.co/mTAEcKYjuZ
These activities would be considered to be beyond the corporation’s legal authority. As punishment, the entity would be stripped of its legal authority, which means it could lose corporate protections. It could even lead to the dissolution of companies that use funds to go toward political campaigns.
Of course, labor unions would be exempt from the measure, as KIRO Newsradio’s Charlie Harger pointed out.
A WA Democrat introduced a bill this week that would destroy any corporation that spends money opposing the income tax.
— Charlie Harger, KIRO Newsradio (@KIROCharlie) March 10, 2026
Not a fine. Not a lawsuit. Your company ceases to exist.
Labor unions are exempt.
Full commentary at 7:35 on @KIRONewsradio. 👇 pic.twitter.com/C6rfzDcMkt
Tjhe First Amendment issues here are pretty straightforward. Participating in political speech is clearly protected by the Constitution. This measure doesn't simply set limits on such activity. It bans it altogether, meaning that companies would not have the ability to speak on legislation, policies, or candidates that could affect it.
This is clearly not about campaign finance reform. It is about shutting out certain voices using the power of government. It is a blatant effort to silence dissent, as evidenced by the fact that it exempts labor unions, which tend to favor Democrats.