Subject of Possible Rule Making: Updates to required public-records rules to comply with statutory requirements and department policies; and the repeal of outdated and inapplicable rules.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 42.56 RCW (Public Records Act), RCW 77.04.013 and 77.12.047.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The changes to Washington department of fish and wildlife's (WDFW) public records rules are necessary because the rules are mandated by the Public Records Act (chapter 42.56 RCW), and specifically RCW 42.56.040. This project will update WDFW's rules to bring them into compliance with the Public Records Act. The project also will repeal outdated and inapplicable rules. The attorney general's office (AGO) has provided model rules for agencies regarding public records. This project will integrate department policies with the AGO's model rules.

     Process for Developing New Rule:      Agency study.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Joanna Eide, Administrative Regulations Analyst, WDFW Enforcement Program, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091, phone (360) 902-2403, fax (360) 902-2156, e-mail Joanna.Eide@dfw.wa.gov. Contact by March 10, 2012. Expected proposal filing on or after March 21, 2012.

January 30, 2012

Joanna M. Eide

Administrative Regulations Analyst

© Washington State Code Reviser's Office