| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Judiciary Committee | |
HB 1317
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Title: An act relating to public access to county law libraries.
Brief Description: Providing public access to county law libraries.
Sponsors: Representatives Lantz, Hinkle, Kenney, Springer, Skinner, Darneille, Williams, Upthegrove, Chase, Dickerson and Ormsby.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
Hearing Date: 2/6/07
Staff: Bill Perry (786-7123).
Background:
Each county with a population of 8,000 or more is required to maintain a county law library.
The library is governed by a board of trustees. Smaller counties may have a law library which is
run by the prosecuting attorney. Counties may also join to form a regional law library. In a
county where a library is required, a "suitable" room with adequate heat, light, and janitorial
services must be provided by the county. In a county of 300,000 population or more, use of the
law library must be free to all residents. In smaller counties, libraries must be free for judges,
county officials, lawyers, and any others as determined by the law library board.
Funding for law libraries is through portions of the civil filing fees in superior and district courts.
Summary of Bill:
The use of each county law library must be free to the residents of the county. This requirement
of free use applies to all county law libraries, regardless of the population of the county.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 5, 2007.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.