Initiative 200

Initiative 200 (full text of Initiative 200 26KB) took effect on December 3, 1998 and applies to all local governments, including counties, cities, and towns. I-200 prohibits "preferential treatment" based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, and contracting.

The Washington State Attorney General's Office has prepared an issue paper discussing the potential impacts of I-200 on public employment and public contracting. A media advisory and summary of the issue paper are also available.

MRSC suggests that counties, cities, and towns review their hiring policies, including civil service, and procurement policies in light of I-200. MRSC is serving as a clearinghouse for information on the effects of I-200 on local governments.

Please share information from your jurisdiction with us. Stay tuned to MRSC's Web site for updates on this topic.

Reference Sources

• Initiative 200 (full text) ( 26KB)

Documents

• Issue Paper on Initiative 200 - Washington State Attorney General's Office (October 16, 1998); copies available through MRSC
• Summary of Issue Paper on Initiative 200 - Washington State Attorney General's Office (October 16, 1998); copies available through MRSC
• Initiative 200 Media Advisory - Washington State Attorney General's Office (October 16, 1998); copies available through MRSC
• Regional Leaders Launch Post I-200 Initiative 'Equity In Contracting', news advisory from the city of Seattle Web site.
• Implementing Initiative 200: Keeping Faith with the Voters by the Washington Policy Center 
• Initiative 200 by the Washington State Office of Minority & Women's Business Enterprises
• Article "King County Implements Terms of Initiative 200"