The Washington State Public Disclosure Commission is reminding elected officials, many appointed officials, and new candidates that annual F‑1 personal financial affairs statements are due by April 15. According to information published by the PDC in its February 2, 2026 notice, new candidates must file within two weeks of beginning their candidacy. The filing requirement has been part of state law since 1972 following the passage of Initiative 276.

The PDC’s announcement, available at the agency’s website, notes that several free virtual training sessions are scheduled in advance of the deadline. These two‑hour classes are set for February 11, March 18, April 1, and April 8. Participants are asked to register ahead of time through Eventbrite at the PDC’s training registration page. According to the agency, registrants will receive a meeting link the day before their selected class.

The PDC has also scheduled two less formal “lunch and learn” sessions, both held at noon, on March 24 and April 28. The March meeting is designed for annual F‑1 filers, while the April session is oriented toward candidates. Registration for these sessions is available through the same Eventbrite link provided by the Commission.

For those unable to attend either format, the PDC notes that guidance on completing an F‑1 form is available via email at [email protected] and through the agency’s video tutorials posted on its YouTube channel at @WASTPDC.

Local officials in Cowlitz County and candidates preparing for the 2026 election cycle are subject to the same disclosure requirements as the rest of the state. The F‑1 report is intended to provide transparency around potential financial conflicts of interest for public officeholders and those seeking public office.