Electrical switching device in a motor vehicle having an anti-ESD device

An electrical switching device adapted for use in a motor vehicle and comprising:

• a housing assembly including a housing member, an electrical switching device disposed within said housing member and an actuating element having an exposed outer surface and operatively engaging said electrical switching device to alter the electrical state thereof in response to tactile operator activation;
• an electrically conductive ring member substantially circumscribing the perimeter of said exposed outer surface;
• a conductor fixedly disposed within said housing member in spaced proximity to a segment of said ring member, establishing an air gap therebetween;
• and
• means in-circuit with said conductor operative to dissipate an electrostatic charge received from a vehicle operator through said conductive ring, said air gap, and said conductor.