VETO MESSAGE ON SB 5770-S

                   May 9, 1997

To the Honorable President and Members,

  The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

     I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 1, Substitute Senate Bill No. 5770 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to the confidentiality of child welfare records;"

     Substitute Senate Bill No. 5770 modifies the confidentiality laws covering child welfare records to require greater disclosure of information.  It is similar to my original executive request legislation, which was intended to aid in the investigation of child deaths in Washington.

     Section 1 of SSB 5770, the intent section, makes strong statements beyond the scope of the bill, and beyond my original intent.  I am concerned that it may lead to unintended invasions of privacy in deeply personal and sensitive matters.

     For this reason, I have vetoed section 1 of Substitute Senate Bill No. 5770.

     With the exception of section 1, I am approving Substitute Senate Bill No. 5770.

                   Respectfully submitted,

                   Gary Locke

                   Governor