VETO MESSAGE ON ESB 6617

March 1, 2018

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval, Engrossed Senate Bill No. 6617 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to records disclosure obligations of the legislative branch."

At the request of a number of lawmakers, I am vetoing Engrossed Senate Bill 6617 in its entirety so that the Legislature can engage with the public and stakeholders in a transparent process to discuss and consider legislative public records issues.

While a wide majority of lawmakers voted for Engrossed Senate Bill 6617 as a genuine effort to create clarity and increase transparency, the process was seriously flawed. I applaud Washingtonians for making their voices heard as well as legislators' thoughtful reconsideration.

For these reasons I have vetoed Engrossed Senate Bill No. 6617 in its entirety.

Respectfully submitted,
Jay Inslee
Governor