Washington Public Records Law

= Short Description =

Who is covered?
Governor: Covered

Legislature: Covered in part.

Courts: Not covered

Advisory Committees: Covered

What is the process like?
Any person can request records. Each agency is require to publish their specific procedures. Most agencies act somewhat informally, although large agencies tend to have FOI officers. Many agencies will respond to oral requests for routine matters. Written requests should state clearly that it pertains to the act, describe specifically the records being sought, list date and time, provide contact information, and note that the law requires a prompt response. Responses must be issued within 5 days unless the agency can establish that they can't meet the deadline. No fees may be charged for inspection or location of records. The rate for copies is set at $0.15 per page, although an agency may establish higher rates if necessary to recover actual costs, a justification must be made public.

Most recent changes?
= Legislation =

The following are bills introduced in 2011:

= Articles, Blog Posts, etc =


 * State Governors redefine open government - Sunlight Foundation, Jul. 7, 2011