Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 41.44.050 — Election to participate., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 41.44.050. Election to participate.
Any city or town may elect to participate in the retirement system established by this chapter: PROVIDED, That a first-class city may establish or maintain any other retirement system authorized by any other law or its charter. The manner of election to participate in a retirement system under this chapter shall be as follows:
(1) The legislative body therein by ordinance making such election;
(2) Approval by vote of the people of an ordinance initiated by the voters making such election;
(3) Approval by vote of the people of an ordinance making such election referended to the people by the legislative body.
Any ordinance providing for participation therein may on petition of the voters be referended to the voters for approval or disapproval.
The referendum or initiative herein provided for shall be exercised under the law relating to legislative initiative or referendum of the particular city or town; and if the city or town be one for which the law does not now provide such initiative or referendum, it shall be exercised in the manner provided for legislative initiative and referendum of cities having a commission form of government under chapter
35.17 RCW, the city or town council performing the duties and functions under that law devolving on the commission. A majority vote in the legislative body or by the electorate shall be sufficient to carry or reject. Whenever any city or town has elected to join the retirement system proper authorities in such city [or town] shall immediately file with the board an application for participation under the conditions included in this chapter on a form approved by the board. In such application the city or town shall agree to make the contributions required of participating cities [or towns] in the manner prescribed herein and shall state which employee group or groups are to originally have membership in the system.
In the case of a state association of cities and towns, election to participate shall be by majority vote of the board of directors of the association.
Notes
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 271: See note following RCW
41.32.260.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 41.44.050
What does Revised Code of Washington § 41.44.050 cover?
Section 41.44.050 ("Election to participate.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Washington § 41.44.050?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 41.44.050" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Washington law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.
How does Washington § 41.44.050 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.
