HB 1350 - DIGEST

Declares an intent to restore the law relating to the release of public records largely to that which existed before the Washington supreme court decision in Hangartner v. City of Seattle, 151 Wn.2d 439, 90 P.3d 26 (2004).

Declares that the intent of this act is to make clear that: (1) Agencies possessing records must take every available step to assist and facilitate the identification and disclosure of requested records to the public and may not simply ignore or reject requests for disclosure on the basis they are "overly broad," and

(2) Agencies having public records and seeking to exempt disclosure on the basis of the attorney-client privilege may rely only on the exemption in RCW 42.17.310(1)(j) and not the testimonial privilege in RCW 5.60.060(2).

Declares an intent to clarify certain public records provisions to assist agencies in discharging their duty to maintain open governance and to assist citizens in exercising their right to request and examine the recorded workings of their government.