Gov. Chris Gregoire, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and House Speaker Frank Chopp issued a joint statement this morning to announce they are no longer considering action on the "Working Privacy Act" because of an e-mail that linked action on the bills to campaign contributions.

"Bringing the bill forward was no longer an option," the statement reads. "The e-mail raises serious legal and ethical questions. The matter has been referred to the Washington State Patrol for investigation."

Senate Bill 5446 and House Bill 1528 would make it illegal for an employer to require their employees to participate in communication relating to political, labor or religious matters. The proposals also require employers to post employee rights in a conspicuous place. Both proposals also would allow employees whose rights have been violated to bring a civil court action against their employer.

Neither measure has yet passed the chamber level. The proposals would have to pass by the close of business tomorrow to be further considered this session.