(1) A denial of a request for records will be accompanied by a written statement of the specific reasons therefor.

(2) If the department denies a requestor access to public records, the requestor may petition in writing to the public records officer for a review of that decision. The petition shall include a copy of or reasonably identify the written statement denying the request.

(3) The department shall promptly review a petition to review a denial of a public records request and either affirm or reverse the denial within two business days following the department's receipt of the petition or within such other time as the department and the requestor mutually agree to.

(4) If the department denies a requestor access to public records because it claims the record is exempt in whole or in part from disclosure, the requestor may request the attorney general's office to review the matter, pursuant to RCW 42.56.530. The attorney general has adopted rules on such requests in WAC 44-06-160.

(5) Any person may obtain court review of denials of public records requests pursuant to RCW 42.56.550.