(1) Explanatory statements prepared by the attorney general under RCW 29A.32.070 (3) and (4) must be written in clear and concise language, avoiding legal and technical terms when possible, and filed with the secretary of state.

     (2) When the explanatory statement for a measure initiated by petition is filed with the secretary of state, the secretary of state shall immediately provide the text of the explanatory statement to the person proposing the measure and any others who have made written request for notification of the exact language of the explanatory statement. When the explanatory statement for a measure referred to the ballot by the legislature is filed with the secretary of state, the secretary of state shall immediately provide the text of the explanatory statement to the presiding officer of the senate and the presiding officer of the house of representatives and any others who have made written request for notification of the exact language of the explanatory statement.

     (3) A person dissatisfied with the explanatory statement may appeal to the superior court of Thurston County within five days of the filing date. A copy of the petition and a notice of the appeal must be served on the secretary of state and the attorney general. The court shall examine the measure, the explanatory statement, and objections, and may hear arguments. The court shall render its decision and certify to and file with the secretary of state an explanatory statement it determines will meet the requirements of this chapter.

     The decision of the superior court is final, and its explanatory statement is the established explanatory statement. The appeal must be heard without costs to either party.

[2003 c 111 § 804. Prior: 1999 c 260 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.81.230.]