SENATE BILL REPORT
EHB 1234
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. |
As of February 14, 2012
Title: An act relating to law enforcement crime prevention efforts regarding security alarm systems and crime watch programs for residential and commercial locations.
Brief Description: Addressing law enforcement crime prevention efforts regarding security alarm systems and crime watch programs for residential and commercial locations.
Sponsors: Representatives Moscoso, Hope, Klippert, Lytton, Johnson, Rivers, Jinkins, Ladenburg, Ryu, Reykdal, Fitzgibbon and Maxwell.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/25/11, 97-0; 1/16/12, 90-0.
Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 3/14/11, 3/17/11 [DP]; 2/16/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Pridemore, Chair; Prentice, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Chase, Nelson and Roach.
Staff: Sharon Swanson (786-7447)
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: Personally identifying information regarding local security alarm system programs and vacation crime watch programs collected by law enforcement agencies is exempt from disclosure. However, the exemption does not prohibit the legal owner of a residence or business from accessing information pertinent to his or her residence or business.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This is a simple bill to effectuate a simple fix. This is a good public policy bill, and the police chiefs and sheriffs support the bill.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Jo Arlow, Washington Association of Sheriff's and Police Chiefs.