Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee |
ESSB 5098
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 personal information from public inspection and copying.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections (originally sponsored by Senators Carrell and Chase).
Brief Summary of Engrossed Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/14/11
Staff: Thamas Osborn (786-7129).
Background:
The Public Records Act (PRA) requires that all state and local government agencies make all public records available for public inspection and copying unless they fall within certain statutory exemptions. The provisions requiring public records disclosure must be interpreted liberally and the exemptions narrowly in order to effectuate a general policy favoring disclosure.
Summary of Bill:
The personal information in any files maintained for a participant in an agency or community-based program including, but not limited to, early learning or child care services, parks and recreation programs, youth development programs, and after-school programs is exempt from public inspection and copying under the Public Records Act.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.