Chapter 42.56 RCW

Public records act

Chapter Listing

RCW Sections

42.56.001 Finding, purpose.

42.56.010 Definitions.

42.56.020 Short title.

42.56.030 Construction.

42.56.040 Duty to publish procedures.

42.56.050 Invasion of privacy, when.

42.56.060 Disclaimer of public liability.

42.56.070 Documents and indexes to be made public.

42.56.080 Facilities for copying -- Availability of public records.

42.56.090 Times for inspection and copying -- Posting on web site.

42.56.100 Protection of public records -- Public access.

42.56.110 Destruction of information relating to employee misconduct.

42.56.120 Charges for copying.

42.56.130 Other provisions not superseded.

42.56.140 Public records exemptions accountability committee.

42.56.210 Certain personal and other records exempt.

42.56.230 Personal information.

42.56.240 Investigative, law enforcement, and crime victims.

42.56.250 Employment and licensing.

42.56.260 Real estate appraisals.

42.56.270 Financial, commercial, and proprietary information.

42.56.280 Preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, intra-agency memorandums.

42.56.290 Agency party to controversy.

42.56.300 Archaeological sites.

42.56.310 Library records.

42.56.320 Educational information.

42.56.330 Public utilities and transportation.
42.56.335 Public utility districts and municipally owned electrical utilities -- Restrictions 

on access by law enforcement authorities.

42.56.340 Timeshare, condominium, etc. owner lists.

42.56.350 Health professionals.

42.56.360 Health care.

42.56.370 Domestic violence program, rape crisis center clients.

42.56.380 Agriculture and livestock.

42.56.390 Emergency or transitional housing.

42.56.400 Insurance and financial institutions.

42.56.403 Property and casualty insurance statements of actuarial opinion.

42.56.410 Employment security department records, certain purposes.

42.56.420 Security.

42.56.430 Fish and wildlife.

42.56.440 Veterans' discharge papers -- Exceptions.

42.56.450 Check cashers and sellers licensing applications.

42.56.460 Fireworks.

42.56.470 Correctional industries workers.

42.56.480 Inactive programs.

42.56.510 Duty to disclose or withhold information -- Otherwise provided.

42.56.520 Prompt responses required.

42.56.530 Review of agency denial.

42.56.540 Court protection of public records.

42.56.550 Judicial review of agency actions.

42.56.560 Application of RCW 42.56.550.

42.56.565 Inspection or copying by persons serving criminal sentences -- Injunction.

42.56.570 Explanatory pamphlet.

42.56.580 Public records officers.

42.56.590 Personal information -- Notice of security breaches.

42.56.600 Mediation communications.

42.56.610 Certain information from dairies and feedlots limited -- Rules.

42.56.900 Purpose -- 2005 c 274 §§ 402-429.

42.56.901 Part headings not law -- 2005 c 274.

42.56.902 Effective date -- 2005 c 274.
42.56.903 Effective date -- 2006 c 209.

42.56.904 Intent -- 2007 c 391.

Notes:

Criminal records privacy: Chapter 10.97 RCW. 

42.56.001

Finding, purpose.

The legislature finds that chapter 42.17 RCW contains laws relating to several discrete subjects. Therefore, the 

purpose of chapter 274, Laws of 2005 is to recodify some of those laws and create a new chapter in the Revised 

Code of Washington that contains laws pertaining to public records. 

[2005 c 274 § 1.]

42.56.010

Definitions.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 2016-S2.SL) ***

The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

 (1) "Agency" includes all state agencies and all local agencies. "State agency" includes every state office, 

department, division, bureau, board, commission, or other state agency. "Local agency" includes every county, city, 

town, municipal corporation, quasi-municipal corporation, or special purpose district, or any office, department, 

division, bureau, board, commission, or agency thereof, or other local public agency.

 (2) "Public record" includes any writing containing information relating to the conduct of government or the 

performance of any governmental or proprietary function prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local 

agency regardless of physical form or characteristics. For the office of the secretary of the senate and the office of the 

chief clerk of the house of representatives, public records means legislative records as defined in RCW 40.14.100

and also means the following: All budget and financial records; personnel leave, travel, and payroll records; records 

of legislative sessions; reports submitted to the legislature; and any other record designated a public record by any 

official action of the senate or the house of representatives.

 (3) "Writing" means handwriting, typewriting, printing, photostating, photographing, and every other means of 

recording any form of communication or representation including, but not limited to, letters, words, pictures, sounds, 

or symbols, or combination thereof, and all papers, maps, magnetic or paper tapes, photographic films and prints, 

motion picture, film and video recordings, magnetic or punched cards, discs, drums, diskettes, sound recordings, and 

other documents including existing data compilations from which information may be obtained or translated. 

[2007 c 197 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 101.]

42.56.020

Short title.
This chapter may be known and cited as the public records act. 

[2005 c 274 § 102.]

42.56.030

Construction.

The people of this state do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies that serve them. The people, in delegating 

authority, do not give their public servants the right to decide what is good for the people to know and what is not 

good for them to know. The people insist on remaining informed so that they may maintain control over the 

instruments that they have created. This chapter shall be liberally construed and its exemptions narrowly construed to 

promote this public policy and to assure that the public interest will be fully protected. In the event of conflict between 

the provisions of this chapter and any other act, the provisions of this chapter shall govern. 

[2007 c 197 § 2; 2005 c 274 § 283; 1992 c 139 § 2. Formerly RCW 42.17.251.]

42.56.040

Duty to publish procedures.

(1) Each state agency shall separately state and currently publish in the Washington Administrative Code and each 

local agency shall prominently display and make available for inspection and copying at the central office of such 

local agency, for guidance of the public:

 (a) Descriptions of its central and field organization and the established places at which, the employees from 

whom, and the methods whereby, the public may obtain information, make submittals or requests, or obtain copies of 

agency decisions;

 (b) Statements of the general course and method by which its operations are channeled and determined, including 

the nature and requirements of all formal and informal procedures available;

 (c) Rules of procedure;

 (d) Substantive rules of general applicability adopted as authorized by law, and statements of general policy or 

interpretations of general applicability formulated and adopted by the agency; and

 (e) Each amendment or revision to, or repeal of any of the foregoing.

 (2) Except to the extent that he has actual and timely notice of the terms thereof, a person may not in any manner 

be required to resort to, or be adversely affected by, a matter required to be published or displayed and not so 

published or displayed. 

[1973 c 1 § 25 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.250.]

42.56.050

Invasion of privacy, when.
A person's "right to privacy," "right of privacy," "privacy," or "personal privacy," as these terms are used in this 

chapter, is invaded or violated only if disclosure of information about the person: (1) Would be highly offensive to a 

reasonable person, and (2) is not of legitimate concern to the public. The provisions of this chapter dealing with the 

right to privacy in certain public records do not create any right of privacy beyond those rights that are specified in this 

chapter as express exemptions from the public's right to inspect, examine, or copy public records. 

[1987 c 403 § 2. Formerly RCW 42.17.255.]

Notes:

 Intent -- 1987 c 403: "The legislature intends to restore the law relating to the 

release of public records largely to that which existed prior to the Washington Supreme 

Court decision in "In Re Rosier," 105 Wn.2d 606 (1986). The intent of this legislation is 

to make clear that: (1) Absent statutory provisions to the contrary, agencies possessing 

records should in responding to requests for disclosure not make any distinctions in 

releasing or not releasing records based upon the identity of the person or agency 

which requested the records, and (2) agencies having public records should rely only 

upon statutory exemptions or prohibitions for refusal to provide public records. Further, 

to avoid unnecessary confusion, "privacy" as used in RCW 42.17.255 is intended to 

have the same meaning as the definition given that word by the Supreme Court in 

"Hearst v. Hoppe," 90 Wn.2d 123, 135 (1978)." [1987 c 403 § 1.] 

 Severability -- 1987 c 403: "If any provision of this act or its application to any 

person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the 

provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [1987 c 403 § 7.] 

42.56.060

Disclaimer of public liability.

No public agency, public official, public employee, or custodian shall be liable, nor shall a cause of action exist, for 

any loss or damage based upon the release of a public record if the public agency, public official, public employee, or 

custodian acted in good faith in attempting to comply with the provisions of this chapter. 

[1992 c 139 § 11. Formerly RCW 42.17.258]

42.56.070

Documents and indexes to be made public.

(1) Each agency, in accordance with published rules, shall make available for public inspection and copying all public 

records, unless the record falls within the specific exemptions of *subsection (6) of this section, this chapter, or other 

statute which exempts or prohibits disclosure of specific information or records. To the extent required to prevent an 

unreasonable invasion of personal privacy interests protected by this chapter, an agency shall delete identifying 

details in a manner consistent with this chapter when it makes available or publishes any public record; however, in 

each case, the justification for the deletion shall be explained fully in writing.
 (2) For informational purposes, each agency shall publish and maintain a current list containing every law, other 

than those listed in this chapter, that the agency believes exempts or prohibits disclosure of specific information or 

records of the agency. An agency's failure to list an exemption shall not affect the efficacy of any exemption.

 (3) Each local agency shall maintain and make available for public inspection and copying a current index 

providing identifying information as to the following records issued, adopted, or promulgated after January 1, 1973:

 (a) Final opinions, including concurring and dissenting opinions, as well as orders, made in the adjudication of 

cases;

 (b) Those statements of policy and interpretations of policy, statute, and the Constitution which have been adopted 

by the agency;

 (c) Administrative staff manuals and instructions to staff that affect a member of the public;

 (d) Planning policies and goals, and interim and final planning decisions;

 (e) Factual staff reports and studies, factual consultant's reports and studies, scientific reports and studies, and 

any other factual information derived from tests, studies, reports, or surveys, whether conducted by public employees 

or others; and

 (f) Correspondence, and materials referred to therein, by and with the agency relating to any regulatory, 

supervisory, or enforcement responsibilities of the agency, whereby the agency determines, or opines upon, or is 

asked to determine or opine upon, the rights of the state, the public, a subdivision of state government, or of any

private party.

 (4) A local agency need not maintain such an index, if to do so would be unduly burdensome, but it shall in that 

event:

 (a) Issue and publish a formal order specifying the reasons why and the extent to which compliance would unduly 

burden or interfere with agency operations; and

 (b) Make available for public inspection and copying all indexes maintained for agency use.

 (5) Each state agency shall, by rule, establish and implement a system of indexing for the identification and 

location of the following records:

 (a) All records issued before July 1, 1990, for which the agency has maintained an index;

 (b) Final orders entered after June 30, 1990, that are issued in adjudicative proceedings as defined in RCW 

34.05.010 and that contain an analysis or decision of substantial importance to the agency in carrying out its duties;

 (c) Declaratory orders entered after June 30, 1990, that are issued pursuant to RCW 34.05.240 and that contain 

an analysis or decision of substantial importance to the agency in carrying out its duties;

 (d) Interpretive statements as defined in RCW 34.05.010 that were entered after June 30, 1990; and

 (e) Policy statements as defined in RCW 34.05.010 that were entered after June 30, 1990.

 Rules establishing systems of indexing shall include, but not be limited to, requirements for the form and content 

of the index, its location and availability to the public, and the schedule for revising or updating the index. State 

agencies that have maintained indexes for records issued before July 1, 1990, shall continue to make such indexes 

available for public inspection and copying. Information in such indexes may be incorporated into indexes prepared 

pursuant to this subsection. State agencies may satisfy the requirements of this subsection by making available to the 

public indexes prepared by other parties but actually used by the agency in its operations. State agencies shall make 

indexes available for public inspection and copying. State agencies may charge a fee to cover the actual costs of 

providing individual mailed copies of indexes.

 (6) A public record may be relied on, used, or cited as precedent by an agency against a party other than an 

agency and it may be invoked by the agency for any other purpose only if:

 (a) It has been indexed in an index available to the public; or
 (b) Parties affected have timely notice (actual or constructive) of the terms thereof.

 (7) Each agency shall establish, maintain, and make available for public inspection and copying a statement of the 

actual per page cost or other costs, if any, that it charges for providing photocopies of public records and a statement 

of the factors and manner used to determine the actual per page cost or other costs, if any.

 (a) In determining the actual per page cost for providing photocopies of public records, an agency may include all 

costs directly incident to copying such public records including the actual cost of the paper and the per page cost for 

use of agency copying equipment. In determining other actual costs for providing photocopies of public records, an 

agency may include all costs directly incident to shipping such public records, including the cost of postage or 

delivery charges and the cost of any container or envelope used.

 (b) In determining the actual per page cost or other costs for providing copies of public records, an agency may 

not include staff salaries, benefits, or other general administrative or overhead charges, unless those costs are 

directly related to the actual cost of copying the public records. Staff time to copy and mail the requested public 

records may be included in an agency's costs.

 (8) An agency need not calculate the actual per page cost or other costs it charges for providing photocopies of 

public records if to do so would be unduly burdensome, but in that event: The agency may not charge in excess of 

fifteen cents per page for photocopies of public records or for the use of agency equipment to photocopy public 

records and the actual postage or delivery charge and the cost of any container or envelope used to mail the public 

records to the requestor.

 (9) This chapter shall not be construed as giving authority to any agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, 

or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives to give, sell or provide access to lists of individuals 

requested for commercial purposes, and agencies, the office of the secretary of the senate, and the office of the chief 

clerk of the house of representatives shall not do so unless specifically authorized or directed by law: PROVIDED, 

HOWEVER, That lists of applicants for professional licenses and of professional licensees shall be made available to 

those professional associations or educational organizations recognized by their professional licensing or 

examination board, upon payment of a reasonable charge therefor: PROVIDED FURTHER, That such recognition 

may be refused only for a good cause pursuant to a hearing under the provisions of chapter 34.05 RCW, the 

Administrative Procedure Act. 

[2005 c 274 § 284; 1997 c 409 § 601. Prior: 1995 c 397 § 11; 1995 c 341 § 1; 1992 c 139 § 3; 1989 c 175 § 36; 1987 c 403 § 3; 1975 1st 

ex.s. c 294 § 14; 1973 c 1 § 26 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.260.]

Notes:

 *Reviser's note: Subsection (6) of this section was renumbered as subsection (7) by 

1992 c 139 § 3; and subsection (7) was subsequently renumbered as subsection (9) by 

1995 c 341 § 1. 

 Part headings -- Severability -- 1997 c 409: See notes following RCW 43.22.051. 

 Effective date -- 1989 c 175: See note following RCW 34.05.010. 

 Intent -- Severability -- 1987 c 403: See notes following RCW 42.56.050. 

Exemption for registered trade names: RCW 19.80.065. 
42.56.080

Facilities for copying — Availability of public records.

Public records shall be available for inspection and copying, and agencies shall, upon request for identifiable public 

records, make them promptly available to any person including, if applicable, on a partial or installment basis as 

records that are part of a larger set of requested records are assembled or made ready for inspection or disclosure. 

Agencies shall not deny a request for identifiable public records solely on the basis that the request is overbroad. 

Agencies shall not distinguish among persons requesting records, and such persons shall not be required to provide 

information as to the purpose for the request except to establish whether inspection and copying would violate RCW 

42.56.070(9) or other statute which exempts or prohibits disclosure of specific information or records to certain 

persons. Agency facilities shall be made available to any person for the copying of public records except when and to 

the extent that this would unreasonably disrupt the operations of the agency. Agencies shall honor requests received 

by mail for identifiable public records unless exempted by provisions of this chapter. 

[2005 c 483 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 285; 1987 c 403 § 4; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 15; 1973 c 1 § 27 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved 

November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.270.]

Notes:

 Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 274 § 285 and by 2005 c 483 

§ 1, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the 

publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 

1.12.025(1). 

 Intent -- Severability -- 1987 c 403: See notes following RCW 42.56.050. 

42.56.090

Times for inspection and copying — Posting on web site.

Public records shall be available for inspection and copying during the customary office hours of the agency, the 

office of the secretary of the senate, and the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives for a minimum of 

thirty hours per week, except weeks that include state legal holidays, unless the person making the request and the 

agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives or its 

representative agree on a different time. Customary business hours must be posted on the agency or office's web site 

and made known by other means designed to provide the public with notice. 

[2009 c 428 § 2; 1995 c 397 § 12; 1973 c 1 § 28 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.280.]

42.56.100

Protection of public records — Public access.

Agencies shall adopt and enforce reasonable rules and regulations, and the office of the secretary of the senate and 

the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives shall adopt reasonable procedures allowing for the time, 

resource, and personnel constraints associated with legislative sessions, consonant with the intent of this chapter to 

provide full public access to public records, to protect public records from damage or disorganization, and to prevent 

excessive interference with other essential functions of the agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the 
office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives. Such rules and regulations shall provide for the fullest 

assistance to inquirers and the most timely possible action on requests for information. Nothing in this section shall 

relieve agencies, the office of the secretary of the senate, and the office of the chief clerk of the house of 

representatives from honoring requests received by mail for copies of identifiable public records.

 If a public record request is made at a time when such record exists but is scheduled for destruction in the near 

future, the agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house of 

representatives shall retain possession of the record, and may not destroy or erase the record until the request is 

resolved. 

[1995 c 397 § 13; 1992 c 139 § 4; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 16; 1973 c 1 § 29 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). 

Formerly RCW 42.17.290.]

42.56.110

Destruction of information relating to employee misconduct.

Nothing in this chapter prevents an agency from destroying information relating to employee misconduct or alleged 

misconduct, in accordance with RCW 41.06.450, to the extent necessary to ensure fairness to the employee. 

[1982 c 208 § 13. Formerly RCW 42.17.295.]

Notes:

 Severability -- 1982 c 208: See RCW 42.40.900. 

42.56.120

Charges for copying.

No fee shall be charged for the inspection of public records. No fee shall be charged for locating public documents 

and making them available for copying. A reasonable charge may be imposed for providing copies of public records 

and for the use by any person of agency equipment or equipment of the office of the secretary of the senate or the 

office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives to copy public records, which charges shall not exceed the 

amount necessary to reimburse the agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of 

the house of representatives for its actual costs directly incident to such copying. Agency charges for photocopies 

shall be imposed in accordance with the actual per page cost or other costs established and published by the agency. 

In no event may an agency charge a per page cost greater than the actual per page cost as established and 

published by the agency. To the extent the agency has not determined the actual per page cost for photocopies of 

public records, the agency may not charge in excess of fifteen cents per page. An agency may require a deposit in an 

amount not to exceed ten percent of the estimated cost of providing copies for a request. If an agency makes a 

request available on a partial or installment basis, the agency may charge for each part of the request as it is 

provided. If an installment of a records request is not claimed or reviewed, the agency is not obligated to fulfill the 

balance of the request. 

[2005 c 483 § 2. Prior: 1995 c 397 § 14; 1995 c 341 § 2; 1973 c 1 § 30 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly 

RCW 42.17.300.]
42.56.130

Other provisions not superseded.

The provisions of RCW 42.56.070(7) and (8) and 42.56.120 that establish or allow agencies to establish the costs 

charged for photocopies of public records do not supersede other statutory provisions, other than in this chapter, 

authorizing or governing fees for copying public records. 

[2005 c 274 § 286; 1995 c 341 § 3. Formerly RCW 42.17.305.]

42.56.140

Public records exemptions accountability committee.

(1)(a) The public records exemptions accountability committee is created to review exemptions from public 

disclosure, with thirteen members as provided in this subsection.

 (i) The governor shall appoint two members, one of whom represents the governor and one of whom represents 

local government.

 (ii) The attorney general shall appoint two members, one of whom represents the attorney general and one of 

whom represents a statewide media association.

 (iii) The state auditor shall appoint one member.

 (iv) The president of the senate shall appoint one member from each of the two largest caucuses of the senate.

 (v) The speaker of the house of representatives shall appoint one member from each of the two largest caucuses 

of the house of representatives.

 (vi) The governor shall appoint four members of the public, with consideration given to diversity of viewpoint and 

geography.

 (b) The governor shall select the chair of the committee from among its membership.

 (c) Terms of the members shall be four years and shall be staggered, beginning August 1, 2007.

 (2) The purpose of the public records exemptions accountability committee is to review public disclosure 

exemptions and provide recommendations pursuant to subsection (7)(d) of this section. The committee shall develop 

and publish criteria for review of public exemptions.

 (3) All meetings of the committee shall be open to the public.

 (4) The committee must consider input from interested parties.

 (5) The office of the attorney general and the office of financial management shall provide staff support to the 

committee.

 (6) Legislative members of the committee shall be reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with RCW 

44.04.120. Nonlegislative members, except those representing an employer or organization, are entitled to be 

reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.

 (7)(a) Beginning August 1, 2007, the code reviser shall provide the committee by August 1st of each year with a 

list of all public disclosure exemptions in the Revised Code of Washington.

 (b) The committee shall develop a schedule to accomplish a review of each public disclosure exemption. The 

committee shall publish the schedule and publish any revisions made to the schedule.
 (c) The chair shall convene an initial meeting of the committee by September 1, 2007. The committee shall meet 

at least once a quarter and may hold additional meetings at the call of the chair or by a majority vote of the members 

of the committee.

 (d) For each public disclosure exemption, the committee shall provide a recommendation as to whether the 

exemption should be continued without modification, modified, scheduled for sunset review at a future date, or 

terminated. By November 15th of each year, the committee shall transmit its recommendations to the governor, the 

attorney general, and the appropriate committees of the house of representatives and the senate. 

[2007 c 198 § 2.]

Notes:

 Finding -- 2007 c 198: "The legislature recognizes that public disclosure exemptions 

are enacted to meet objectives that are determined to be in the public interest. Given 

the changing nature of information technology and management, recordkeeping, and 

the increasing number of public disclosure exemptions, the legislature finds that periodic 

reviews of public disclosure exemptions are needed to determine if each exemption 

serves the public interest." [2007 c 198 § 1.] 

42.56.210

Certain personal and other records exempt.

(1) Except for information described in RCW 42.56.230(3)(a) and confidential income data exempted from public 

inspection pursuant to RCW 84.40.020, the exemptions of this chapter are inapplicable to the extent that information, 

the disclosure of which would violate personal privacy or vital governmental interests, can be deleted from the 

specific records sought. No exemption may be construed to permit the nondisclosure of statistical information not 

descriptive of any readily identifiable person or persons.

 (2) Inspection or copying of any specific records exempt under the provisions of this chapter may be permitted if 

the superior court in the county in which the record is maintained finds, after a hearing with notice thereof to every 

person in interest and the agency, that the exemption of such records is clearly unnecessary to protect any 

individual's right of privacy or any vital governmental function.

 (3) Agency responses refusing, in whole or in part, inspection of any public record shall include a statement of the 

specific exemption authorizing the withholding of the record (or part) and a brief explanation of how the exemption 

applies to the record withheld. 

[2005 c 274 § 402. Prior: (2006 c 302 § 11 expired July 1, 2006); (2006 c 75 § 2 expired July 1, 2006); (2006 c 8 § 111 expired July 1, 2006); 

(2003 1st sp.s. c 26 § 926 expired June 30, 2005); 2003 c 277 § 3; 2003 c 124 § 1; prior: 2002 c 335 § 1; 2002 c 224 § 2; 2002 c 205 § 4; 

2002 c 172 § 1; prior: 2001 c 278 § 1; 2001 c 98 § 2; 2001 c 70 § 1; prior: 2000 c 134 § 3; 2000 c 56 § 1; 2000 c 6 § 5; prior: 1999 c 326 § 3; 

1999 c 290 § 1; 1999 c 215 § 1; 1998 c 69 § 1; prior: 1997 c 310 § 2; 1997 c 274 § 8; 1997 c 250 § 7; 1997 c 239 § 4; 1997 c 220 § 120 

(Referendum Bill No. 48, approved June 17, 1997); 1997 c 58 § 900; prior: 1996 c 305 § 2; 1996 c 253 § 302; 1996 c 191 § 88; 1996 c 80 § 

1; 1995 c 267 § 6; prior: 1994 c 233 § 2; 1994 c 182 § 1; prior: 1993 c 360 § 2; 1993 c 320 § 9; 1993 c 280 § 35; prior: 1992 c 139 § 5; 1992 

c 71 § 12; 1991 c 301 § 13; 1991 c 87 § 13; 1991 c 23 § 10; 1991 c 1 § 1; 1990 2nd ex.s. c 1 § 1103; 1990 c 256 § 1; prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 

9 § 407; 1989 c 352 § 7; 1989 c 279 § 23; 1989 c 238 § 1; 1989 c 205 § 20; 1989 c 189 § 3; 1989 c 11 § 12; prior: 1987 c 411 § 10; 1987 c 

404 § 1; 1987 c 370 § 16; 1987 c 337 § 1; 1987 c 107 § 2; prior: 1986 c 299 § 25; 1986 c 276 § 7; 1985 c 414 § 8; 1984 c 143 § 21; 1983 c 

133 § 10; 1982 c 64 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 314 § 13; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 82 § 5; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 17; 1973 c 1 § 31 (Initiative Measure No. 

276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.310.]

Notes:
 Expiration date -- 2006 c 302 §§ 9 and 11: See note following RCW 66.28.180. 

 Expiration date -- 2006 c 75 § 2: "Section 2 of this act expires July 1, 2006." [2006 

c 75 § 4.] 

 Expiration date -- 2006 c 8 § 111: "Section 111 of this act expires July 1, 2006." 

[2006 c 8 § 404.] 

 Expiration date -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 2003 1st sp.s. c 26: See notes 

following RCW 43.135.045. 

 Working group on veterans' records: "The protection from identity theft for 

veterans who choose to file their discharge papers with the county auditor is a matter of 

gravest concern. At the same time, the integrity of the public record of each county is a 

matter of utmost importance to the economic life of this state and to the right of each 

citizen to be secure in his or her ownership of real property and other rights and 

obligations of our citizens that rely upon the public record for their proof. Likewise the 

integrity of the public record is essential for the establishment of ancestral ties that may 

be of interest to this and future generations. While the public record as now kept by the 

county auditors is sufficient by itself for the accomplishment of these and many other 

public and private purposes, the proposed use of the public record for purposes that in 

their nature and intent are not public, so as to keep the veterans' discharge papers from 

disclosure to those of ill intent, causes concern among many segments of the 

population of this state.

 In order to voice these concerns effectively and thoroughly, a working group may be 

convened by the joint committee on veterans' and military affairs to develop a means to 

preserve the integrity of the public record while protecting those veterans from identity 

theft." [2002 c 224 § 1.] 

 Effective date -- 2002 c 224 § 1: "Section 1 of this act is necessary for the 

immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state 

government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 28, 

2002]." [2002 c 224 § 4.] 

 Findings -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 2002 c 205 §§ 2, 3, and 4: See notes 

following RCW 28A.320.125. 

 Finding -- 2001 c 98: "The legislature finds that public health and safety is promoted 

when the public has knowledge that enables them to make informed choices about their 

health and safety. Therefore, the legislature declares, as a matter of public policy, that 

the public has a right to information necessary to protect members of the public from 

harm caused by alleged hazards or threats to the public.

 The legislature also recognizes that the public disclosure of those portions of records 

containing specific and unique vulnerability assessments or specific and unique 
response plans, either of which is intended to prevent or mitigate criminal terrorist acts 

as defined in RCW 70.74.285, could have a substantial likelihood of threatening public 

safety. Therefore, the legislature declares, as a matter of public policy, that such 

specific and unique information should be protected from unnecessary disclosure." 

[2001 c 98 § 1.] 

 Findings -- Conflict with federal requirements -- Severability -- 2000 c 134: See 

notes following RCW 50.13.060. 

 Effective date -- 1998 c 69: See note following RCW 28B.95.025. 

 Effective date -- 1997 c 274: See note following RCW 41.05.021. 

 Referendum -- Other legislation limited -- Legislators' personal intent not 

indicated -- Reimbursements for election -- Voters' pamphlet, election 

requirements -- 1997 c 220: See RCW 36.102.800 through 36.102.803. 

 Part headings not law -- Severability -- 1997 c 220: See RCW 36.102.900 and 

36.102.901. 

 Short title -- Part headings, captions, table of contents not law -- Exemptions 

and waivers from federal law -- Conflict with federal requirements -- Severability --

1997 c 58: See RCW 74.08A.900 through 74.08A.904. 

 Severability -- 1996 c 305: See note following RCW 28B.85.020. 

 Findings -- Purpose -- Severability -- Part headings not law -- 1996 c 253: See 

notes following RCW 28B.109.010. 

 Captions not law -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1995 c 267: See notes 

following RCW 43.70.052. 

 Effective date -- 1994 c 233: See note following RCW 70.123.075. 

 Effective date -- 1994 c 182: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1994." [1994 c 182 § 

2.] 

 Effective date -- 1993 c 360: See note following RCW 18.130.085. 

 Effective date--Severability -- 1993 c 280: See RCW 43.330.902 and 43.330.903. 

 Finding -- 1991 c 301: See note following RCW 10.99.020. 

 Effective date -- 1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350. 
 Effective dates -- 1990 2nd ex.s. c 1: See note following RCW 84.52.010. 

 Severability -- 1990 2nd ex.s. c 1: See note following RCW 82.14.300. 

 Effective date -- Severability -- 1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 

43.70.920. 

 Severability -- 1989 c 279: See RCW 43.163.901. 

 Severability -- 1989 c 11: See note following RCW 9A.56.220. 

 Severability -- 1987 c 411: See RCW 69.45.900. 

 Severability -- Effective date -- 1986 c 299: See RCW 28C.10.900 and 

28C.10.902. 

 Severability -- 1986 c 276: See RCW 53.31.901. 

Exemptions from public inspection

 basic health plan records: RCW 70.47.150.

 bill drafting service of code reviser's office: RCW 1.08.027, 44.68.060.

 certificate submitted by individual with physical or mental disability seeking a driver's 

license: RCW 46.20.041.

 commercial fertilizers, sales reports: RCW 15.54.362.

 criminal records: Chapter 10.97 RCW.

 employer information: RCW 50.13.060.

 family and children's ombudsman: RCW 43.06A.050.

 legislative service center, information: RCW 44.68.060.

 medical quality assurance commission, reports required to be filed with: RCW 

18.71.0195.

 organized crime investigative information: RCW 43.43.856.

 public transportation information: RCW 47.04.240.

 salary and fringe benefit survey information: RCW 41.06.160. 

42.56.230

Personal information. (Effective until January 1, 2010.)

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 1597-S2.SL) ***

The following personal information is exempt from public inspection and copying under this chapter:

 (1) Personal information in any files maintained for students in public schools, patients or clients of public 

institutions or public health agencies, or welfare recipients;
 (2) Personal information in files maintained for employees, appointees, or elected officials of any public agency to 

the extent that disclosure would violate their right to privacy;

 (3) Information required of any taxpayer in connection with the assessment or collection of any tax if the disclosure 

of the information to other persons would (a) be prohibited to such persons by RCW 84.08.210, 82.32.330, 

84.40.020, or 84.40.340 or (b) violate the taxpayer's right to privacy or result in unfair competitive disadvantage to the 

taxpayer; 

 (4) Credit card numbers, debit card numbers, electronic check numbers, card expiration dates, or bank or other 

financial account numbers, except when disclosure is expressly required by or governed by other law; and

 (5) Documents and related materials and scanned images of documents and related materials used to prove 

identity, age, residential address, social security number, or other personal information required to apply for a driver's 

license or identicard. 

[2008 c 200 § 5; 2005 c 274 § 403.]

 

42.56.230

Personal information. (Effective January 1, 

2010.)

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 1597-S2.SL) ***

The following personal information is exempt from public inspection and copying under this chapter:

 (1) Personal information in any files maintained for students in public schools, patients or clients of public 

institutions or public health agencies, or welfare recipients;

 (2) Personal information in files maintained for employees, appointees, or elected officials of any public agency to 

the extent that disclosure would violate their right to privacy;

 (3) Information required of any taxpayer in connection with the assessment or collection of any tax if the disclosure 

of the information to other persons would (a) be prohibited to such persons by RCW 84.08.210, 82.32.330, 

84.40.020, or 84.40.340 or (b) violate the taxpayer's right to privacy or result in unfair competitive disadvantage to the 

taxpayer; 

 (4) Credit card numbers, debit card numbers, electronic check numbers, card expiration dates, or bank or other 

financial account numbers, except when disclosure is expressly required by or governed by other law; 

 (5) Personal and financial information related to a small loan or any system of authorizing a small loan in RCW 

31.45.093; and

 (6) Documents and related materials and scanned images of documents and related materials used to prove 

identity, age, residential address, social security number, or other personal information required to apply for a driver's 

license or identicard. 

[2009 c 510 § 8; 2008 c 200 § 5; 2005 c 274 § 403.]

Notes:

 Effective date -- 2009 c 510: See RCW 31.45.901. 
 Finding -- Intent -- Liberal construction -- 2009 c 510: See note following RCW

31.45.010. 

42.56.240

Investigative, law enforcement, and crime victims.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 2961-S2.SL) ***

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 6361-S.SL) ***

The following investigative, law enforcement, and crime victim information is exempt from public inspection and 

copying under this chapter:

 (1) Specific intelligence information and specific investigative records compiled by investigative, law enforcement, 

and penology agencies, and state agencies vested with the responsibility to discipline members of any profession, 

the nondisclosure of which is essential to effective law enforcement or for the protection of any person's right to 

privacy;

 (2) Information revealing the identity of persons who are witnesses to or victims of crime or who file complaints 

with investigative, law enforcement, or penology agencies, other than the commission, if disclosure would endanger 

any person's life, physical safety, or property. If at the time a complaint is filed the complainant, victim, or witness 

indicates a desire for disclosure or nondisclosure, such desire shall govern. However, all complaints filed with the 

commission about any elected official or candidate for public office must be made in writing and signed by the 

complainant under oath;

 (3) Any records of investigative reports prepared by any state, county, municipal, or other law enforcement agency 

pertaining to sex offenses contained in chapter 9A.44 RCW or sexually violent offenses as defined in RCW 

71.09.020, which have been transferred to the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs for permanent 

electronic retention and retrieval pursuant to RCW 40.14.070(2)(b);

 (4) License applications under RCW 9.41.070; copies of license applications or information on the applications 

may be released to law enforcement or corrections agencies; 

 (5) Information revealing the identity of child victims of sexual assault who are under age eighteen. Identifying 

information means the child victim's name, address, location, photograph, and in cases in which the child victim is a 

relative or stepchild of the alleged perpetrator, identification of the relationship between the child and the alleged 

perpetrator; and

 (6) The statewide gang database referenced in RCW 43.43.762. 

[2008 c 276 § 202; 2005 c 274 § 404.]

Notes:

 Severability -- Part headings, subheadings not law -- 2008 c 276: See notes 

following RCW 36.28A.200. 
42.56.250

Employment and licensing.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 5295-S.SL) ***

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 1317-S2.SL) ***

The following employment and licensing information is exempt from public inspection and copying under this chapter:

 (1) Test questions, scoring keys, and other examination data used to administer a license, employment, or 

academic examination;

 (2) All applications for public employment, including the names of applicants, resumes, and other related materials 

submitted with respect to an applicant;

 (3) The residential addresses, residential telephone numbers, personal wireless telephone numbers, personal 

electronic mail addresses, social security numbers, and emergency contact information of employees or volunteers of 

a public agency, and the names, dates of birth, residential addresses, residential telephone numbers, personal 

wireless telephone numbers, personal electronic mail addresses, social security numbers, and emergency contact 

information of dependents of employees or volunteers of a public agency that are held by any public agency in 

personnel records, public employment related records, or volunteer rosters, or are included in any mailing list of 

employees or volunteers of any public agency. For purposes of this subsection, "employees" includes independent 

provider home care workers as defined in RCW 74.39A.240;

 (4) Information that identifies a person who, while an agency employee: (a) Seeks advice, under an informal 

process established by the employing agency, in order to ascertain his or her rights in connection with a possible 

unfair practice under chapter 49.60 RCW against the person; and (b) requests his or her identity or any identifying 

information not be disclosed;

 (5) Investigative records compiled by an employing agency conducting a current investigation of a possible unfair 

practice under chapter 49.60 RCW or of a possible violation of other federal, state, or local laws prohibiting 

discrimination in employment; and

 (6) Except as provided in RCW 47.64.220, salary and employee benefit information collected under RCW 

47.64.220(1) and described in RCW 47.64.220(2). 

[2006 c 209 § 6; 2005 c 274 § 405.]

42.56.260

Real estate appraisals.

Except as provided by chapter 8.26 RCW, the contents of real estate appraisals, made for or by any agency relative 

to the acquisition or sale of property, until the project or prospective sale is abandoned or until such time as all of the 

property has been acquired or the property to which the sale appraisal relates is sold, are exempt from disclosure 

under this chapter. In no event may disclosure be denied for more than three years after the appraisal. 

[2005 c 274 § 406.]

42.56.270

Financial, commercial, and proprietary information.
The following financial, commercial, and proprietary information is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Valuable formulae, designs, drawings, computer source code or object code, and research data obtained by 

any agency within five years of the request for disclosure when disclosure would produce private gain and public loss;

 (2) Financial information supplied by or on behalf of a person, firm, or corporation for the purpose of qualifying to 

submit a bid or proposal for (a) a ferry system construction or repair contract as required by RCW 47.60.680 through 

47.60.750 or (b) highway construction or improvement as required by RCW 47.28.070;

 (3) Financial and commercial information and records supplied by private persons pertaining to export services 

provided under chapters 43.163 and 53.31 RCW, and by persons pertaining to export projects under RCW 

43.23.035;

 (4) Financial and commercial information and records supplied by businesses or individuals during application for 

loans or program services provided by chapters 43.325, 43.163, 43.160, 43.330, and 43.168 RCW, or during 

application for economic development loans or program services provided by any local agency;

 (5) Financial information, business plans, examination reports, and any information produced or obtained in 

evaluating or examining a business and industrial development corporation organized or seeking certification under 

chapter 31.24 RCW;

 (6) Financial and commercial information supplied to the state investment board by any person when the 

information relates to the investment of public trust or retirement funds and when disclosure would result in loss to 

such funds or in private loss to the providers of this information;

 (7) Financial and valuable trade information under RCW 51.36.120;

 (8) Financial, commercial, operations, and technical and research information and data submitted to or obtained 

by the clean Washington center in applications for, or delivery of, program services under chapter 70.95H RCW;

 (9) Financial and commercial information requested by the public stadium authority from any person or 

organization that leases or uses the stadium and exhibition center as defined in RCW 36.102.010;

 (10)(a) Financial information, including but not limited to account numbers and values, and other identification 

numbers supplied by or on behalf of a person, firm, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity 

related to an application for a horse racing license submitted pursuant to RCW 67.16.260(1)(b), liquor license, 

gambling license, or lottery retail license;

 (b) Internal control documents, independent auditors' reports and financial statements, and supporting documents: 

(i) Of house-banked social card game licensees required by the gambling commission pursuant to rules adopted 

under chapter 9.46 RCW; or (ii) submitted by tribes with an approved tribal/state compact for class III gaming;

 (11) Proprietary data, trade secrets, or other information that relates to: (a) A vendor's unique methods of 

conducting business; (b) data unique to the product or services of the vendor; or (c) determining prices or rates to be 

charged for services, submitted by any vendor to the department of social and health services for purposes of the 

development, acquisition, or implementation of state purchased health care as defined in RCW 41.05.011; 

 (12)(a) When supplied to and in the records of the *department of community, trade, and economic development:

 (i) Financial and proprietary information collected from any person and provided to the *department of community, 

trade, and economic development pursuant to RCW 43.330.050(8); and

 (ii) Financial or proprietary information collected from any person and provided to the *department of community, 

trade, and economic development or the office of the governor in connection with the siting, recruitment, expansion, 

retention, or relocation of that person's business and until a siting decision is made, identifying information of any 

person supplying information under this subsection and the locations being considered for siting, relocation, or 

expansion of a business;

 (b) When developed by the *department of community, trade, and economic development based on information as 

described in (a)(i) of this subsection, any work product is not exempt from disclosure;

 (c) For the purposes of this subsection, "siting decision" means the decision to acquire or not to acquire a site;
 (d) If there is no written contact for a period of sixty days to the *department of community, trade, and economic 

development from a person connected with siting, recruitment, expansion, retention, or relocation of that person's 

business, information described in (a)(ii) of this subsection will be available to the public under this chapter;

 (13) Financial and proprietary information submitted to or obtained by the department of ecology or the authority 

created under chapter 70.95N RCW to implement chapter 70.95N RCW;

 (14) Financial, commercial, operations, and technical and research information and data submitted to or obtained 

by the life sciences discovery fund authority in applications for, or delivery of, grants under chapter 43.350 RCW, to 

the extent that such information, if revealed, would reasonably be expected to result in private loss to the providers of 

this information;

 (15) Financial and commercial information provided as evidence to the department of licensing as required by 

RCW 19.112.110 or 19.112.120, except information disclosed in aggregate form that does not permit the 

identification of information related to individual fuel licensees;

 (16) Any production records, mineral assessments, and trade secrets submitted by a permit holder, mine operator, 

or landowner to the department of natural resources under RCW 78.44.085;

 (17)(a) Farm plans developed by conservation districts, unless permission to release the farm plan is granted by 

the landowner or operator who requested the plan, or the farm plan is used for the application or issuance of a permit;

 (b) Farm plans developed under chapter 90.48 RCW and not under the federal clean water act, 33 U.S.C. Sec. 

1251 et seq., are subject to RCW 42.56.610 and 90.64.190;

 (18) Financial, commercial, operations, and technical and research information and data submitted to or obtained 

by a health sciences and services authority in applications for, or delivery of, grants under RCW 35.104.010 through 

35.104.060, to the extent that such information, if revealed, would reasonably be expected to result in private loss to 

providers of this information; 

 (19) Information gathered under chapter 19.85 RCW or RCW 34.05.328 that can be identified to a particular 

business; and

 (20) Financial and commercial information submitted to or obtained by the University of Washington, other than 

information the university is required to disclose under RCW 28B.20.150, when the information relates to investments 

in private funds, to the extent that such information, if revealed, would reasonably be expected to result in loss to the 

University of Washington consolidated endowment fund or to result in private loss to the providers of this information. 

[2009 c 394 § 3; 2008 c 306 § 1. Prior: 2007 c 470 § 2; (2007 c 470 § 1 expired June 30, 2008); 2007 c 251 § 13; (2007 c 251 § 12 expired 

June 30, 2008); 2007 c 197 § 4; (2007 c 197 § 3 expired June 30, 2008); prior: 2006 c 369 § 2; 2006 c 341 § 6; 2006 c 338 § 5; 2006 c 302 § 

12; 2006 c 209 § 7; 2006 c 183 § 37; 2006 c 171 § 8; 2005 c 274 § 407.]

Notes:

 *Reviser's note: The "department of community, trade, and economic development" 

was renamed the "department of commerce" by 2009 c 565. 

 Intent -- 2009 c 394: See note following RCW 28B.20.150. 

 Effective date -- 2008 c 306 § 1: "Section 1 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." 

[2008 c 306 § 2.] 

 Effective date -- 2007 c 470 § 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." 

[2007 c 470 § 4.] 

 Expiration date -- 2007 c 470 § 1: "Section 1 of this act expires June 30, 2008." 
[2007 c 470 § 3.] 

 Effective date -- 2007 c 251 § 13: "Section 13 of this act takes effect June 30, 

2008." [2007 c 251 § 18.] 

 Expiration date -- 2007 c 251 § 12: "Section 12 of this act expires June 30, 2008." 

[2007 c 251 § 17.] 

 Captions not law -- Severability -- 2007 c 251: See notes following RCW 

35.104.010. 

 Effective date -- 2007 c 197 § 4: "Section 4 of this act takes effect June 30, 2008." 

[2007 c 197 § 11.] 

 Expiration date -- 2007 c 197 § 3: "Section 3 of this act expires June 30, 2008." 

[2007 c 197 § 10.] 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 369 § 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect July 1, 2006." 

[2006 c 369 § 3.] 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 341 § 6: "Section 6 of this act takes effect July 1, 2006." 

[2006 c 341 § 7.] 

 Findings -- Intent -- 2006 c 338: See note following RCW 19.112.110. 

 Effective date -- Severability -- 2006 c 338: See RCW 19.112.903 and 19.112.904. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 302 §§ 10 and 12: See note following RCW 66.28.180. 

 Construction -- Severability -- Effective date -- 2006 c 183: See RCW 70.95N.900

through 70.95N.902. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 171 §§ 8 and 10: "Sections 8 and 10 of this act take effect 

July 1, 2006." [2006 c 171 § 13.] 

 Findings -- Severability -- 2006 c 171: See RCW 43.325.001 and 43.325.901. 

42.56.280

Preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, intra-agency 

memorandums.
Preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, and intra-agency memorandums in which opinions are expressed or 

policies formulated or recommended are exempt under this chapter, except that a specific record is not exempt when 

publicly cited by an agency in connection with any agency action. 

[2005 c 274 § 408.]

42.56.290

Agency party to controversy.

Records that are relevant to a controversy to which an agency is a party but which records would not be available to 

another party under the rules of pretrial discovery for causes pending in the superior courts are exempt from 

disclosure under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 409.]

42.56.300

Archaeological sites.

(1) Records, maps, or other information identifying the location of archaeological sites in order to avoid the looting or 

depredation of such sites are exempt from disclosure under this chapter.

 (2) Records, maps, and other information, acquired during watershed analysis pursuant to the forests and fish 

report under RCW 76.09.370, that identify the location of archaeological sites, historic sites, artifacts, or the sites of 

traditional religious, ceremonial, or social uses and activities of affected Indian tribes, are exempt from disclosure 

under this chapter in order to prevent the looting or depredation of such sites. 

[2006 c 86 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 410.]

Notes:

 Effective date -- 2006 c 86: "This act takes effect July 1, 2006." [2006 c 86 § 2.] 

42.56.310

Library records.

Any library record, the primary purpose of which is to maintain control of library materials, or to gain access to 

information, that discloses or could be used to disclose the identity of a library user is exempt from disclosure under 

this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 411.]
42.56.320

Educational information.

The following educational information is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Financial disclosures filed by private vocational schools under chapters 28B.85 and 28C.10 RCW;

 (2) Financial and commercial information supplied by or on behalf of a person, firm, corporation, or entity under 

chapter 28B.95 RCW relating to the purchase or sale of tuition units and contracts for the purchase of multiple tuition 

units;

 (3) Individually identifiable information received by the workforce training and education coordinating board for 

research or evaluation purposes; 

 (4) Except for public records as defined in RCW 40.14.010, any records or documents obtained by a state college, 

university, library, or archive through or concerning any gift, grant, conveyance, bequest, or devise, the terms of 

which restrict or regulate public access to those records or documents; and

 (5) The annual declaration of intent filed by parents under RCW 28A.200.010 for a child to receive home-based 

instruction. 

[2009 c 191 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 412.]

42.56.330

Public utilities and transportation.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 5295-S.SL) ***

The following information relating to public utilities and transportation is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Records filed with the utilities and transportation commission or attorney general under RCW 80.04.095 that a 

court has determined are confidential under RCW 80.04.095;

 (2) The residential addresses and residential telephone numbers of the customers of a public utility contained in 

the records or lists held by the public utility of which they are customers, except that this information may be released 

to the division of child support or the agency or firm providing child support enforcement for another state under Title 

IV-D of the federal social security act, for the establishment, enforcement, or modification of a support order;

 (3) The names, residential addresses, residential telephone numbers, and other individually identifiable records 

held by an agency in relation to a vanpool, carpool, or other ride-sharing program or service; however, these records 

may be disclosed to other persons who apply for ride-matching services and who need that information in order to 

identify potential riders or drivers with whom to share rides;

 (4) The personally identifying information of current or former participants or applicants in a paratransit or other 

transit service operated for the benefit of persons with disabilities or elderly persons;

 (5) The personally identifying information of persons who acquire and use transit passes and other fare payment 

media including, but not limited to, stored value smart cards and magnetic strip cards, except that an agency may 

disclose this information to a person, employer, educational institution, or other entity that is responsible, in whole or 

in part, for payment of the cost of acquiring or using a transit pass or other fare payment media, or to the news media 

when reporting on public transportation or public safety. This information may also be disclosed at the agency's 

discretion to governmental agencies or groups concerned with public transportation or public safety;

 (6) Any information obtained by governmental agencies that is collected by the use of a motor carrier intelligent 
transportation system or any comparable information equipment attached to a truck, tractor, or trailer; however, the 

information may be given to other governmental agencies or the owners of the truck, tractor, or trailer from which the 

information is obtained. As used in this subsection, "motor carrier" has the same definition as provided in RCW 

81.80.010; 

 (7) The personally identifying information of persons who acquire and use transponders or other technology to 

facilitate payment of tolls. This information may be disclosed in aggregate form as long as the data does not contain 

any personally identifying information. For these purposes aggregate data may include the census tract of the 

account holder as long as any individual personally identifying information is not released. Personally identifying 

information may be released to law enforcement agencies only for toll enforcement purposes. Personally identifying 

information may be released to law enforcement agencies for other purposes only if the request is accompanied by a 

court order; and

 (8) The personally identifying information of persons who acquire and use a driver's license or identicard that 

includes a radio frequency identification chip or similar technology to facilitate border crossing. This information may 

be disclosed in aggregate form as long as the data does not contain any personally identifying information. Personally 

identifying information may be released to law enforcement agencies only for United States customs and border 

protection enforcement purposes. Personally identifying information may be released to law enforcement agencies for 

other purposes only if the request is accompanied by a court order. 

[2008 c 200 § 6; 2007 c 197 § 5; 2006 c 209 § 8; 2005 c 274 § 413.]

42.56.335

Public utility districts and municipally owned electrical utilities —

Restrictions on access by law enforcement authorities.

A law enforcement authority may not request inspection or copying of records of any person who belongs to a public 

utility district or a municipally owned electrical utility unless the authority provides the public utility district or 

municipally owned electrical utility with a written statement in which the authority states that it suspects that the 

particular person to whom the records pertain has committed a crime and the authority has a reasonable belief that 

the records could determine or help determine whether the suspicion might be true. Information obtained in violation 

of this section is inadmissible in any criminal proceeding. 

[2007 c 197 § 6.]

42.56.340

Timeshare, condominium, etc. owner lists.

Membership lists or lists of members or owners of interests of units in timeshare projects, subdivisions, camping 

resorts, condominiums, land developments, or common-interest communities affiliated with such projects, regulated 

by the department of licensing, in the files or possession of the department are exempt from disclosure under this 

chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 414.]
42.56.350

Health professionals.

(1) The federal social security number of individuals governed under chapter 18.130 RCW maintained in the files of 

the department of health is exempt from disclosure under this chapter. The exemption in this section does not apply 

to requests made directly to the department from federal, state, and local agencies of government, and national and 

state licensing, credentialing, investigatory, disciplinary, and examination organizations.

 (2) The current residential address and current residential telephone number of a health care provider governed 

under chapter 18.130 RCW maintained in the files of the department are exempt from disclosure under this chapter, if 

the provider requests that this information be withheld from public inspection and copying, and provides to the

department of health an accurate alternate or business address and business telephone number. The current 

residential address and residential telephone number of a health care provider governed under RCW 18.130.040

maintained in the files of the department of health shall automatically be withheld from public inspection and copying 

unless the provider specifically requests the information be released, and except as provided for under RCW

42.56.070(9). 

[2005 c 274 § 415.]

42.56.360

Health care.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 2396-S2.SL) ***

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 5295-S.SL) ***

(1) The following health care information is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (a) Information obtained by the board of pharmacy as provided in RCW 69.45.090;

 (b) Information obtained by the board of pharmacy or the department of health and its representatives as provided 

in RCW 69.41.044, 69.41.280, and 18.64.420;

 (c) Information and documents created specifically for, and collected and maintained by a quality improvement 

committee under RCW 43.70.510, 70.230.080, or 70.41.200, or by a peer review committee under RCW 4.24.250, or 

by a quality assurance committee pursuant to RCW 74.42.640 or 18.20.390, or by a hospital, as defined in RCW 

43.70.056, for reporting of health care-associated infections under RCW 43.70.056, a notification of an incident under 

RCW 70.56.040(5), and reports regarding adverse events under RCW 70.56.020(2)(b), regardless of which agency is 

in possession of the information and documents;

 (d)(i) Proprietary financial and commercial information that the submitting entity, with review by the department of 

health, specifically identifies at the time it is submitted and that is provided to or obtained by the department of health 

in connection with an application for, or the supervision of, an antitrust exemption sought by the submitting entity 

under RCW 43.72.310;

 (ii) If a request for such information is received, the submitting entity must be notified of the request. Within ten 

business days of receipt of the notice, the submitting entity shall provide a written statement of the continuing need 

for confidentiality, which shall be provided to the requester. Upon receipt of such notice, the department of health 

shall continue to treat information designated under this subsection (1)(d) as exempt from disclosure;

 (iii) If the requester initiates an action to compel disclosure under this chapter, the submitting entity must be joined 

as a party to demonstrate the continuing need for confidentiality;

 (e) Records of the entity obtained in an action under RCW 18.71.300 through 18.71.340;
 (f) Except for published statistical compilations and reports relating to the infant mortality review studies that do not 

identify individual cases and sources of information, any records or documents obtained, prepared, or maintained by 

the local health department for the purposes of an infant mortality review conducted by the department of health 

under RCW 70.05.170;

 (g) Complaints filed under chapter 18.130 RCW after July 27, 1997, to the extent provided in RCW 18.130.095(1);

 (h) Information obtained by the department of health under chapter 70.225 RCW; and

 (i) Information collected by the department of health under chapter 70.245 RCW except as provided in RCW 

70.245.150.

 (2) Chapter 70.02 RCW applies to public inspection and copying of health care information of patients. 

[2009 c 1 § 24 (Initiative Measure No. 1000, approved November 4, 2008); (2009 c 1 § 23 (Initiative Measure No. 1000), approved November 

4, 2008) expired July 1, 2009); 2008 c 136 § 5; (2008 c 136 § 4 expired July 1, 2009). Prior: 2007 c 273 § 25; 2007 c 261 § 4; 2007 c 259 § 

49; prior: 2006 c 209 § 9; 2006 c 8 § 112; 2005 c 274 § 416.]

Notes:

 Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2009 c 1 § 24 without cognizance of 

its amendment by 2008 c 136 § 5. All amendments are incorporated in the publication of 

this section pursuant to RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 

1.12.025(1). 

 Expiration date -- 2009 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 1000) § 23: "Section 23 of this 

act expires July 1, 2009." [2009 c 1 § 31 (Initiative Measure No. 1000, approved 

November 4, 2008).] 

 Short title -- Severability -- Effective dates -- Captions, part headings, and 

subpart headings not law -- 2009 c 1 (Initiative Measure No. 1000): See RCW 

70.245.901 through 70.245.904. 

 Effective date -- 2008 c 136 § 5: "Section 5 of this act takes effect July 1, 2009." 

[2008 c 136 § 7.] 

 Expiration date -- 2008 c 136 § 4: "Section 4 of this act expires July 1, 2009." [2008 

c 136 § 6.] 

 Effective date -- Implementation -- 2007 c 273: See RCW 70.230.900 and 

70.230.901. 

 Findings -- 2007 c 261: See note following RCW 43.70.056. 

 Severability -- Subheadings not law -- 2007 c 259: See notes following RCW 

41.05.033. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 8 §§ 112 and 210: "Sections 112 and 210 of this act take 

effect July 1, 2006." [2006 c 8 § 405.] 
 Findings -- Intent -- Part headings and subheadings not law -- Severability --

2006 c 8: See notes following RCW 5.64.010. 

Basic health plan -- Confidentiality: RCW 70.47.150. 

42.56.370

Domestic violence program, rape crisis center clients.

Client records maintained by an agency that is a domestic violence program as defined in RCW 70.123.020 or 

70.123.075 or a rape crisis center as defined in RCW 70.125.030 are exempt from disclosure under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 417.]

42.56.380

Agriculture and livestock.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 5295-S.SL) ***

The following information relating to agriculture and livestock is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Business-related information under RCW 15.86.110;

 (2) Information provided under RCW 15.54.362;

 (3) Production or sales records required to determine assessment levels and actual assessment payments to 

commodity boards and commissions formed under chapters 15.24, 15.26, 15.28, 15.44, 15.65, 15.66, 15.74, 15.88, 

15.115, 15.100, 15.89, and 16.67 RCW or required by the department of agriculture to administer these chapters or 

the department's programs;

 (4) Consignment information contained on phytosanitary certificates issued by the department of agriculture under 

chapters 15.13, 15.49, and 15.17 RCW or federal phytosanitary certificates issued under 7 C.F.R. 353 through 

cooperative agreements with the animal and plant health inspection service, United States department of agriculture, 

or on applications for phytosanitary certification required by the department of agriculture;

 (5) Financial and commercial information and records supplied by persons (a) to the department of agriculture for 

the purpose of conducting a referendum for the potential establishment of a commodity board or commission; or (b) 

to the department of agriculture or commodity boards or commissions formed under chapter 15.24, 15.28, 15.44, 

15.65, 15.66, 15.74, 15.88, 15.115, 15.100, 15.89, or 16.67 RCW with respect to domestic or export marketing 

activities or individual producer's production information;

 (6) Except under RCW 15.19.080, information obtained regarding the purchases, sales, or production of an 

individual American ginseng grower or dealer;

 (7) Information that can be identified to a particular business and that is collected under RCW 15.17.140(2) 

and15.17.143 for certificates of compliance;

 (8) Financial statements provided under RCW 16.65.030(1)(d);
 (9) Information submitted by an individual or business for the purpose of participating in a state or national animal 

identification system. Disclosure to local, state, and federal officials is not public disclosure. This exemption does not 

affect the disclosure of information used in reportable animal health investigations under chapter 16.36 RCW once 

they are complete; and

 (10) Results of testing for animal diseases not required to be reported under chapter 16.36 RCW that is done at 

the request of the animal owner or his or her designee that can be identified to a particular business or individual. 

[2009 c 33 § 37; 2007 c 177 § 1. Prior: 2006 c 330 § 26; 2006 c 75 § 3; 2005 c 274 § 418.]

Notes:

 Effective date -- 2006 c 330 § 26: "Section 26 of this act takes effect July 1, 2006." 

[2006 c 330 § 32.] 

 Construction -- Severability -- 2006 c 330: See RCW 15.89.900 and 15.89.901. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 75 § 3: "Section 3 of this act takes effect July 1, 2006." 

[2006 c 75 § 5.] 

 Findings -- 2006 c 75: "The legislature finds that livestock identification numbers, 

premise information, and animal movement data are proprietary information that all 

have a role in defining a livestock producer's position within the marketplace, including 

his or her competitive advantage over other producers. The legislature therefore finds 

that exempting certain voluntary livestock identification, premise, and movement 

information from state public disclosure requirements will foster an environment that is 

more conducive to voluntary participation, and lead to a more effective livestock 

identification system." [2006 c 75 § 1.] 

42.56.390

Emergency or transitional housing.

Names of individuals residing in emergency or transitional housing that are furnished to the department of revenue or 

a county assessor in order to substantiate a claim for property tax exemption under RCW 84.36.043 are exempt from 

disclosure under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 419.]

42.56.400

Insurance and financial institutions.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 2842-S.SL) ***
 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 1714-S.SL) ***

The following information relating to insurance and financial institutions is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Records maintained by the board of industrial insurance appeals that are related to appeals of crime victims' 

compensation claims filed with the board under RCW 7.68.110;

 (2) Information obtained and exempted or withheld from public inspection by the health care authority under RCW

41.05.026, whether retained by the authority, transferred to another state purchased health care program by the 

authority, or transferred by the authority to a technical review committee created to facilitate the development, 

acquisition, or implementation of state purchased health care under chapter 41.05 RCW;

 (3) The names and individual identification data of either all owners or all insureds, or both, received by the 

insurance commissioner under chapter 48.102 RCW;

 (4) Information provided under RCW 48.30A.045 through 48.30A.060;

 (5) Information provided under RCW 48.05.510 through 48.05.535, 48.43.200 through 48.43.225, 48.44.530

through48.44.555 , and 48.46.600 through 48.46.625;

 (6) Examination reports and information obtained by the department of financial institutions from banks under 

RCW 30.04.075, from savings banks under RCW 32.04.220, from savings and loan associations under RCW 

33.04.110, from credit unions under RCW 31.12.565, from check cashers and sellers under RCW 31.45.030(3), and 

from securities brokers and investment advisers under RCW 21.20.100, all of which is confidential and privileged 

information;

 (7) Information provided to the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.110.040(3);

 (8) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.02.065, all of 

which are confidential and privileged;

 (9) Confidential proprietary and trade secret information provided to the commissioner under RCW 48.31C.020

through 48.31C.050 and 48.31C.070;

 (10) Data filed under RCW 48.140.020, 48.140.030, 48.140.050, and 7.70.140 that, alone or in combination with 

any other data, may reveal the identity of a claimant, health care provider, health care facility, insuring entity, or selfinsurer involved in a particular claim or a collection of claims. For the purposes of this subsection:

 (a) "Claimant" has the same meaning as in RCW 48.140.010(2).

 (b) "Health care facility" has the same meaning as in RCW 48.140.010(6).

 (c) "Health care provider" has the same meaning as in RCW 48.140.010(7).

 (d) "Insuring entity" has the same meaning as in RCW 48.140.010(8).

 (e) "Self-insurer" has the same meaning as in RCW 48.140.010(11);

 (11) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.135.060;

 (12) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.37.060;

 (13) Confidential and privileged documents obtained or produced by the insurance commissioner and identified in 

RCW 48.37.080;

 (14) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.37.140; 

 (15) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.17.595; and

 (16) Documents, materials, or information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.102.051(1) and 

48.102.140 (3) and (7)(a)(ii). 
[2009 c 104 § 23. Prior: 2007 c 197 § 7; 2007 c 117 § 36; 2007 c 82 § 17; prior: 2006 c 284 § 17; 2006 c 8 § 210; 2005 c 274 § 420.]

Notes:

 Severability -- Effective date -- 2007 c 117: See RCW 48.17.900 and 48.17.901. 

 Severability -- Effective date -- 2006 c 284: See RCW 48.135.900 and 48.135.901. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 8 §§ 112 and 210: See note following RCW 42.56.360. 

 Findings -- Intent -- Part headings and subheadings not law -- Severability --

2006 c 8: See notes following RCW 5.64.010. 

42.56.403

Property and casualty insurance statements of actuarial opinion.

Documents, materials, and information obtained by the insurance commissioner under RCW 48.05.385(2) are 

confidential and privileged and not subject to public disclosure under this chapter. 

[2006 c 25 § 3.]

Notes:

 Short title -- 2006 c 25 §§ 1-3: See note following RCW 48.05.383. 

 Effective date -- 2006 c 25 §§ 1-4: See note following RCW 48.05.383. 

42.56.410

Employment security department records, certain purposes.

Records maintained by the employment security department and subject to chapter 50.13 RCW if provided to another 

individual or organization for operational, research, or evaluation purposes are exempt from disclosure under this 

chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 421.]

42.56.420

Security.
The following information relating to security is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Those portions of records assembled, prepared, or maintained to prevent, mitigate, or respond to criminal 

terrorist acts, which are acts that significantly disrupt the conduct of government or of the general civilian population 

of the state or the United States and that manifest an extreme indifference to human life, the public disclosure of 

which would have a substantial likelihood of threatening public safety, consisting of:

 (a) Specific and unique vulnerability assessments or specific and unique response or deployment plans, including 

compiled underlying data collected in preparation of or essential to the assessments, or to the response or 

deployment plans; and

 (b) Records not subject to public disclosure under federal law that are shared by federal or international agencies, 

and information prepared from national security briefings provided to state or local government officials related to 

domestic preparedness for acts of terrorism;

 (2) Those portions of records containing specific and unique vulnerability assessments or specific and unique 

emergency and escape response plans at a city, county, or state adult or juvenile correctional facility, or secure 

facility for persons civilly confined under chapter 71.09 RCW, the public disclosure of which would have a substantial 

likelihood of threatening the security of a city, county, or state adult or juvenile correctional facility, secure facility for 

persons civilly confined under chapter 71.09 RCW, or any individual's safety;

 (3) Information compiled by school districts or schools in the development of their comprehensive safe school 

plans under RCW 28A.320.125, to the extent that they identify specific vulnerabilities of school districts and each 

individual school;

 (4) Information regarding the infrastructure and security of computer and telecommunications networks, consisting 

of security passwords, security access codes and programs, access codes for secure software applications, security 

and service recovery plans, security risk assessments, and security test results to the extent that they identify specific 

system vulnerabilities; and

 (5) The *security section of transportation system safety and security program plans required under RCW 

35.21.228, 35A.21.300, 36.01.210, 36.57.120, 36.57A.170, and 81.112.180. 

[2009 c 67 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 422.]

Notes:

 *Reviser's note: "Security section of transportation system safety and security 

program plans" was changed to "system security and emergency preparedness plan" by 

chapter 422, Laws of 2007. 

42.56.430

Fish and wildlife.

The following information relating to fish and wildlife is exempt from disclosure under this chapter:

 (1) Commercial fishing catch data from logbooks required to be provided to the department of fish and wildlife 

under RCW 77.12.047, when the data identifies specific catch location, timing, or methodology and the release of 

which would result in unfair competitive disadvantage to the commercial fisher providing the catch data, however, this 

information may be released to government agencies concerned with the management of fish and wildlife resources;

 (2) Sensitive fish and wildlife data. Sensitive fish and wildlife data may be released to the following entities and 

their agents for fish, wildlife, land management purposes, or scientific research needs: Government agencies, public 

utilities, and accredited colleges and universities. Sensitive fish and wildlife data may be released to tribal 
governments. Sensitive fish and wildlife data may also be released to the owner, lessee, or right-of-way or easement 

holder of the private land to which the data pertains. The release of sensitive fish and wildlife data may be subject to 

a confidentiality agreement, except upon release of sensitive fish and wildlife data to the owner, lessee, or right-ofway or easement holder of private land who initially provided the data. Sensitive fish and wildlife data does not 

include data related to reports of predatory wildlife as specified in RCW 77.12.885. Sensitive fish and wildlife data 

must meet at least one of the following criteria of this subsection as applied by the department of fish and wildlife:

 (a) The nesting sites or specific locations of endangered species designated under RCW 77.12.020, or threatened 

or sensitive species classified by rule of the department of fish and wildlife;

 (b) Radio frequencies used in, or locational data generated by, telemetry studies; or

 (c) Other location data that could compromise the viability of a specific fish or wildlife population, and where at 

least one of the following criteria are met:

 (i) The species has a known commercial or black market value;

 (ii) There is a history of malicious take of that species and the species behavior or ecology renders it especially 

vulnerable;

 (iii) There is a known demand to visit, take, or disturb the species; or

 (iv) The species has an extremely limited distribution and concentration; 

 (3) The personally identifying information of persons who acquire recreational licenses under RCW 77.32.010 or 

commercial licenses under chapter 77.65 or 77.70 RCW, except name, address of contact used by the department, 

and type of license, endorsement, or tag; however, the department of fish and wildlife may disclose personally 

identifying information to:

 (a) Government agencies concerned with the management of fish and wildlife resources;

 (b) The department of social and health services, child support division, and to the department of licensing in order 

to implement RCW 77.32.014 and 46.20.291; and

 (c) Law enforcement agencies for the purpose of firearm possession enforcement under RCW 9.41.040; and

 (4) Information that the department of fish and wildlife has received or accessed but may not disclose due to 

confidentiality requirements in the Magnuson-Stevens fishery conservation and management reauthorization act of 

2006 (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1861(h)(3) and (i), and Sec. 1881a(b)). 

[2008 c 252 § 1; 2007 c 293 § 1; 2005 c 274 § 423.]

42.56.440

Veterans' discharge papers — Exceptions.

(1) Discharge papers of a veteran of the armed forces of the United States filed at the office of the county auditor 

before July 1, 2002, that have not been commingled with other recorded documents are exempt from disclosure 

under this chapter. These records will be available only to the veteran, the veteran's next of kin, a deceased veteran's 

properly appointed personal representative or executor, a person holding that veteran's general power of attorney, or 

to anyone else designated in writing by that veteran to receive the records.

 (2) Discharge papers of a veteran of the armed forces of the United States filed at the office of the county auditor 

before July 1, 2002, that have been commingled with other records are exempt from disclosure under this chapter, if 

the veteran has recorded a "request for exemption from public disclosure of discharge papers" with the county 

auditor. If such a request has been recorded, these records may be released only to the veteran filing the papers, the 

veteran's next of kin, a deceased veteran's properly appointed personal representative or executor, a person holding 

the veteran's general power of attorney, or anyone else designated in writing by the veteran to receive the records.
 (3) Discharge papers of a veteran filed at the office of the county auditor after June 30, 2002, are not public 

records, but will be available only to the veteran, the veteran's next of kin, a deceased veteran's properly appointed 

personal representative or executor, a person holding the veteran's general power of attorney, or anyone else 

designated in writing by the veteran to receive the records.

 (4) For the purposes of this section, next of kin of deceased veterans have the same rights to full access to the 

record. Next of kin are the veteran's widow or widower who has not remarried, son, daughter, father, mother, brother, 

and sister. 

[2005 c 274 § 424.]

42.56.450

Check cashers and sellers licensing applications.

Information in an application for licensing or a small loan endorsement under chapter 31.45 RCW regarding the 

personal residential address, telephone number of the applicant, or financial statement is exempt from disclosure 

under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 425.]

42.56.460

Fireworks.

All records obtained and all reports produced as required by state fireworks law, chapter 70.77 RCW, are exempt 

from disclosure under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 426.]

42.56.470

Correctional industries workers.

All records, documents, data, and other materials obtained under the requirements of RCW 72.09.115 from an 

existing correctional industries class I work program participant or an applicant for a proposed new or expanded class 

I correctional industries work program are exempt from public disclosure under this chapter. 

[2005 c 274 § 427.]

42.56.480

Inactive programs.
Information relating to the following programs and reports, which have no ongoing activity, is exempt from disclosure 

under this chapter:

 (1) Railroad company contracts filed prior to July 28, 1991, with the utilities and transportation commission under 

*RCW 81.34.070, except that the summaries of the contracts are open to public inspection and copying as otherwise 

provided by this chapter;

 (2) Personal information in files maintained in a database created under **RCW 43.07.360; and

 (3) Data collected by the department of social and health services for the reports required by section 8, chapter 

231, Laws of 2003, except as compiled in the aggregate and reported to the senate and house of representatives. 

[2005 c 274 § 428.]

Notes:

 Reviser's note: *(1) RCW 81.34.070 was repealed by 1991 c 49 § 1.

 **(2) RCW 43.07.360 expired December 31, 2000, pursuant to 1996 c 253 § 502. 

42.56.510

Duty to disclose or withhold information — Otherwise provided.

Nothing in RCW 42.56.250 and 42.56.330 shall affect a positive duty of an agency to disclose or a positive duty to 

withhold information which duty to disclose or withhold is contained in any other law. 

[2005 c 274 § 287; 1991 c 23 § 11; 1990 c 256 § 2; 1987 c 404 § 3. Formerly RCW 42.17.311.]

42.56.520

Prompt responses required.

 *** CHANGE IN 2010 *** (SEE 6367-S.SL) ***

Responses to requests for public records shall be made promptly by agencies, the office of the secretary of the 

senate, and the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives. Within five business days of receiving a 

public record request, an agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house 

of representatives must respond by either (1) providing the record; (2) acknowledging that the agency, the office of 

the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives has received the request 

and providing a reasonable estimate of the time the agency, the office of the secretary of the senate, or the office of 

the chief clerk of the house of representatives will require to respond to the request; or (3) denying the public record 

request. Additional time required to respond to a request may be based upon the need to clarify the intent of the 

request, to locate and assemble the information requested, to notify third persons or agencies affected by the 

request, or to determine whether any of the information requested is exempt and that a denial should be made as to 

all or part of the request. In acknowledging receipt of a public record request that is unclear, an agency, the office of 

the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives may ask the requestor to 

clarify what information the requestor is seeking. If the requestor fails to clarify the request, the agency, the office of 

the secretary of the senate, or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives need not respond to it. 

Denials of requests must be accompanied by a written statement of the specific reasons therefor. Agencies, the office 
of the secretary of the senate, and the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives shall establish 

mechanisms for the most prompt possible review of decisions denying inspection, and such review shall be deemed 

completed at the end of the second business day following the denial of inspection and shall constitute final agency 

action or final action by the office of the secretary of the senate or the office of the chief clerk of the house of 

representatives for the purposes of judicial review. 

[1995 c 397 § 15; 1992 c 139 § 6; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 18; 1973 c 1 § 32 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). 

Formerly RCW 42.17.320.]

42.56.530

Review of agency denial.

Whenever a state agency concludes that a public record is exempt from disclosure and denies a person opportunity 

to inspect or copy a public record for that reason, the person may request the attorney general to review the matter. 

The attorney general shall provide the person with his or her written opinion on whether the record is exempt.

 Nothing in this section shall be deemed to establish an attorney-client relationship between the attorney general 

and a person making a request under this section. 

[1992 c 139 § 10. Formerly RCW 42.17.325.]

42.56.540

Court protection of public records.

The examination of any specific public record may be enjoined if, upon motion and affidavit by an agency or its 

representative or a person who is named in the record or to whom the record specifically pertains, the superior court 

for the county in which the movant resides or in which the record is maintained, finds that such examination would 

clearly not be in the public interest and would substantially and irreparably damage any person, or would substantially 

and irreparably damage vital governmental functions. An agency has the option of notifying persons named in the 

record or to whom a record specifically pertains, that release of a record has been requested. However, this option 

does not exist where the agency is required by law to provide such notice. 

[1992 c 139 § 7; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 19; 1973 c 1 § 33 (Initiative Measure No. 276, approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW

42.17.330.]

42.56.550

Judicial review of agency actions.

(1) Upon the motion of any person having been denied an opportunity to inspect or copy a public record by an 

agency, the superior court in the county in which a record is maintained may require the responsible agency to show 

cause why it has refused to allow inspection or copying of a specific public record or class of records. The burden of 

proof shall be on the agency to establish that refusal to permit public inspection and copying is in accordance with a 

statute that exempts or prohibits disclosure in whole or in part of specific information or records.

 (2) Upon the motion of any person who believes that an agency has not made a reasonable estimate of the time 

that the agency requires to respond to a public record request, the superior court in the county in which a record is 

maintained may require the responsible agency to show that the estimate it provided is reasonable. The burden of 
proof shall be on the agency to show that the estimate it provided is reasonable.

 (3) Judicial review of all agency actions taken or challenged under RCW 42.56.030 through 42.56.520 shall be de 

novo. Courts shall take into account the policy of this chapter that free and open examination of public records is in 

the public interest, even though such examination may cause inconvenience or embarrassment to public officials or 

others. Courts may examine any record in camera in any proceeding brought under this section. The court may 

conduct a hearing based solely on affidavits.

 (4) Any person who prevails against an agency in any action in the courts seeking the right to inspect or copy any 

public record or the right to receive a response to a public record request within a reasonable amount of time shall be 

awarded all costs, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred in connection with such legal action. In addition, it 

shall be within the discretion of the court to award such person an amount not less than five dollars and not to exceed 

one hundred dollars for each day that he or she was denied the right to inspect or copy said public record.

 (5) For actions under this section against counties, the venue provisions of RCW 36.01.050 apply.

 (6) Actions under this section must be filed within one year of the agency's claim of exemption or the last 

production of a record on a partial or installment basis. 

[2005 c 483 § 5; 2005 c 274 § 288; 1992 c 139 § 8; 1987 c 403 § 5; 1975 1st ex.s. c 294 § 20; 1973 c 1 § 34 (Initiative Measure No. 276, 

approved November 7, 1972). Formerly RCW 42.17.340.]

Notes:

 Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2005 c 274 § 288 and by 2005 c 483 

§ 5, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the 

publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 

1.12.025(1). 

 Intent -- Severability -- 1987 c 403: See notes following RCW 42.56.050. 

42.56.560

Application of RCW 42.56.550.

The procedures in RCW 42.56.550 govern denials of an opportunity to inspect or copy a public record by the office of 

the secretary of the senate or the office of the chief clerk of the house of representatives. 

[2005 c 274 § 289; 1995 c 397 § 16. Formerly RCW 42.17.341.]

42.56.565

Inspection or copying by persons serving criminal sentences —

Injunction.

(1) The inspection or copying of any nonexempt public record by persons serving criminal sentences in state, local, or 

privately operated correctional facilities may be enjoined pursuant to this section.

 (a) The injunction may be requested by: (i) An agency or its representative; (ii) a person named in the record or his 
or her representative; or (iii) a person to whom the requests specifically pertains or his or her representative.

 (b) The request must be filed in: (i) The superior court in which the movant resides; or (ii) the superior court in the 

county in which the record is maintained.

 (c) In order to issue an injunction, the court must find that:

 (i) The request was made to harass or intimidate the agency or its employees;

 (ii) Fulfilling the request would likely threaten the security of correctional facilities;

 (iii) Fulfilling the request would likely threaten the safety or security of staff, inmates, family members of staff,

family members of other inmates, or any other person; or

 (iv) Fulfilling the request may assist criminal activity.

 (2) In deciding whether to enjoin a request under subsection (1) of this section, the court may consider all relevant 

factors including, but not limited to:

 (a) Other requests by the requestor;

 (b) The type of record or records sought;

 (c) Statements offered by the requestor concerning the purpose for the request;

 (d) Whether disclosure of the requested records would likely harm any person or vital government interest;

 (e) Whether the request seeks a significant and burdensome number of documents;

 (f) The impact of disclosure on correctional facility security and order, the safety or security of correctional facility 

staff, inmates, or others; and

 (g) The deterrence of criminal activity.

 (3) The motion proceeding described in this section shall be a summary proceeding based on affidavits or 

declarations, unless the court orders otherwise. Upon a showing by a preponderance of the evidence, the court may 

enjoin all or any part of a request or requests. Based on the evidence, the court may also enjoin, for a period of time 

the court deems reasonable, future requests by:

 (a) The same requestor; or

 (b) An entity owned or controlled in whole or in part by the same requestor.

 (4) An agency shall not be liable for penalties under RCW 42.56.550(4) for any period during which an order under 

this section is in effect, including during an appeal of an order under this section, regardless of the outcome of the 

appeal. 

[2009 c 10 § 1.]

Notes:

 Effective date -- 2009 c 10: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of 

the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing 

public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 20, 2009]." [2009 c 10 § 2.] 
42.56.570

Explanatory pamphlet.

(1) The attorney general's office shall publish, and update when appropriate, a pamphlet, written in plain language, 

explaining this chapter.

 (2) The attorney general, by February 1, 2006, shall adopt by rule an advisory model rule for state and local 

agencies, as defined in RCW 42.56.010, addressing the following subjects:

 (a) Providing fullest assistance to requestors;

 (b) Fulfilling large requests in the most efficient manner;

 (c) Fulfilling requests for electronic records; and

 (d) Any other issues pertaining to public disclosure as determined by the attorney general.

 (3) The attorney general, in his or her discretion, may from time to time revise the model rule. 

[2007 c 197 § 8. Prior: 2005 c 483 § 4; 2005 c 274 § 290; 1992 c 139 § 9. Formerly RCW 42.17.348.]

42.56.580

Public records officers.

(1) Each state and local agency shall appoint and publicly identify a public records officer whose responsibility is to 

serve as a point of contact for members of the public in requesting disclosure of public records and to oversee the 

agency's compliance with the public records disclosure requirements of this chapter. A state or local agency's public 

records officer may appoint an employee or official of another agency as its public records officer.

 (2) For state agencies, the name and contact information of the agency's public records officer to whom members 

of the public may direct requests for disclosure of public records and who will oversee the agency's compliance with 

the public records disclosure requirements of this chapter shall be published in the state register at the time of 

designation and maintained thereafter on the code reviser web site for the duration of the designation.

 (3) For local agencies, the name and contact information of the agency's public records officer to whom members 

of the public may direct requests for disclosure of public records and who will oversee the agency's compliance within 

the public records disclosure requirements of this chapter shall be made in a way reasonably calculated to provide 

notice to the public, including posting at the local agency's place of business, posting on its internet site, or including 

in its publications. 

[2007 c 456 § 6; 2005 c 483 § 3. Formerly RCW 42.17.253.]

42.56.590

Personal information — Notice of security breaches.

(1)(a) Any agency that owns or licenses computerized data that includes personal information shall disclose any 

breach of the security of the system following discovery or notification of the breach in the security of the data to any 

resident of this state whose unencrypted personal information was, or is reasonably believed to have been, acquired 

by an unauthorized person. The disclosure shall be made in the most expedient time possible and without 

unreasonable delay, consistent with the legitimate needs of law enforcement, as provided in subsection (3) of this 
section, or any measures necessary to determine the scope of the breach and restore the reasonable integrity of the 

data system.

 (b) For purposes of this section, "agency" means the same as in RCW 42.56.010.

 (2) Any agency that maintains computerized data that includes personal information that the agency does not own 

shall notify the owner or licensee of the information of any breach of the security of the data immediately following 

discovery, if the personal information was, or is reasonably believed to have been, acquired by an unauthorized 

person.

 (3) The notification required by this section may be delayed if a law enforcement agency determines that the 

notification will impede a criminal investigation. The notification required by this section shall be made after the law 

enforcement agency determines that it will not compromise the investigation.

 (4) For purposes of this section, "breach of the security of the system" means unauthorized acquisition of 

computerized data that compromises the security, confidentiality, or integrity of personal information maintained by 

the agency. Good faith acquisition of personal information by an employee or agent of the agency for the purposes of 

the agency is not a breach of the security of the system when the personal information is not used or subject to 

further unauthorized disclosure.

 (5) For purposes of this section, "personal information" means an individual's first name or first initial and last 

name in combination with any one or more of the following data elements, when either the name or the data elements 

are not encrypted:

 (a) Social security number;

 (b) Driver's license number or Washington identification card number; or

 (c) Account number or credit or debit card number, in combination with any required security code, access code, 

or password that would permit access to an individual's financial account.

 (6) For purposes of this section, "personal information" does not include publicly available information that is 

lawfully made available to the general public from federal, state, or local government records.

 (7) For purposes of this section and except under subsection (8) of this section, notice may be provided by one of 

the following methods:

 (a) Written notice;

 (b) Electronic notice, if the notice provided is consistent with the provisions regarding electronic records and 

signatures set forth in 15 U.S.C. Sec. 7001; or

 (c) Substitute notice, if the agency demonstrates that the cost of providing notice would exceed two hundred fifty 

thousand dollars, or that the affected class of subject persons to be notified exceeds five hundred thousand, or the 

agency does not have sufficient contact information. Substitute notice shall consist of all of the following:

 (i) E-mail notice when the agency has an e-mail address for the subject persons;

 (ii) Conspicuous posting of the notice on the agency's web site page, if the agency maintains one; and

 (iii) Notification to major statewide media.

 (8) An agency that maintains its own notification procedures as part of an information security policy for the 

treatment of personal information and is otherwise consistent with the timing requirements of this section is in 

compliance with the notification requirements of this section if it notifies subject persons in accordance with its 

policies in the event of a breach of security of the system.

 (9) Any waiver of the provisions of this section is contrary to public policy, and is void and unenforceable.

 (10)(a) Any customer injured by a violation of this section may institute a civil action to recover damages.

 (b) Any business that violates, proposes to violate, or has violated this section may be enjoined.
 (c) The rights and remedies available under this section are cumulative to each other and to any other rights and 

remedies available under law.

 (d) An agency shall not be required to disclose a technical breach of the security system that does not seem 

reasonably likely to subject customers to a risk of criminal activity. 

[2007 c 197 § 9; 2005 c 368 § 1. Formerly RCW 42.17.31922.]

Notes:

Similar provision: RCW 19.255.010. 

42.56.600

Mediation communications.

Records of mediation communications that are privileged under chapter 7.07 RCW are exempt from disclosure under 

this chapter. 

[2006 c 209 § 15.]

42.56.610

Certain information from dairies and feedlots limited — Rules.

The following information in plans, records, and reports obtained by state and local agencies from dairies, animal 

feeding operations, and concentrated animal feeding operations, not required to apply for a national pollutant 

discharge elimination system permit is disclosable only in ranges that provide meaningful information to the public 

while ensuring confidentiality of business information regarding: (1) Number of animals; (2) volume of livestock 

nutrients generated; (3) number of acres covered by the plan or used for land application of livestock nutrients; (4) 

livestock nutrients transferred to other persons; and (5) crop yields. The department of agriculture shall adopt rules to 

implement this section in consultation with affected state and local agencies. 

[2005 c 510 § 5. Formerly RCW 42.17.31923.]

42.56.900

Purpose — 2005 c 274 §§ 402-429.

The purpose of sections 402 through 429 of this act is to reorganize the public inspection and copying exemptions in 

RCW 42.17.310 through 42.17.31921 by creating smaller, discrete code sections organized by subject matter. The 

legislature does not intend that this act effectuate any substantive change to any public inspection and copying 

exemption in the Revised Code of Washington. 

[2005 c 274 § 401.]
42.56.901

Part headings not law — 2005 c 274.

Part headings used in this act are not any part of the law. 

[2005 c 274 § 501.]

42.56.902

Effective date — 2005 c 274.

This act takes effect July 1, 2006. 

[2005 c 274 § 502.]

42.56.903

Effective date — 2006 c 209.

This act takes effect July 1, 2006. 

[2006 c 209 § 17.]

42.56.904

Intent — 2007 c 391.

It is the intent of the legislature to clarify that no reasonable construction of chapter 42.56 RCW has ever allowed 

attorney invoices to be withheld in their entirety by any public entity in a request for documents under that chapter. It 

is further the intent of the legislature that specific descriptions of work performed be redacted only if they would reveal 

an attorney's mental impressions, actual legal advice, theories, or opinions, or are otherwise exempt under chapter 

391, Laws of 2007 or other laws, with the burden upon the public entity to justify each redaction and narrowly 

construe any exception to full disclosure. The legislature intends to clarify that the public's interest in open, 

accountable government includes an accounting of any expenditure of public resources, including through liability 

insurance, upon private legal counsel or private consultants. 

[2007 c 391 § 1.]