Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
State Government, Elections & Information Technology Committee |
HB 2774
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. |
Brief Description: Exempting information relating to the regulation of explosives from public disclosure.
Sponsors: Representatives Condotta and Steele.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/26/18
Staff: Travis Yonker (786-7383).
Background:
The Washington State Explosives Act (Explosives Act) regulates activities related to explosives and blasting agents, including the manufacturing, possession, storage, sale, purchase, transport, and use of such explosives and blasting agents. As part of the Explosives Act, certain records and reports are required to be generated, including various licenses, records of inspections, and records of seizure, forfeiture, and theft of explosives and blasting agents.
The State Fireworks Law (Fireworks Law) regulates activities related to fireworks, including the manufacturing, possession, storage, sale, purchase, transport and use of such fireworks. As part of the Fireworks Law, certain records and reports are required to be generated, including various licenses and permits, records of inspections, and records of seizure and forfeiture of fireworks.
The Public Records Act (PRA) ensures that public records in the custody of the state government, or its political subdivisions, are available for public inspection and copying. The PRA contains a number of exemptions, including an exemption for records and reports produced as required by the Fireworks Law. Records and reports produced related to the Explosives Act are subject to the PRA.
Summary of Bill:
All records and reports required by the Explosives Act are exempt from disclosure under the PRA.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 25, 2018.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.