reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06 - Governor. › 43.06.520 - State sales, use, and business and occupation taxes—Indian tribe compacts—Findings—Intent.

RCW 43.06.520
State sales, use, and business and occupation taxes—Indian tribe compacts—Findings—Intent.
(1) The legislature intends to further the government-to-government relationship between the state of Washington and federally recognized Indian tribes in the state of Washington by authorizing the governor to enter into compacts concerning the state's retail sales, use, and business and occupation taxes on certain activities.
(2) The legislature finds that these compacts will benefit all Washingtonians by providing a means to promote economic development and providing needed revenues for tribal governments and Indian persons.
(3) The state and the tribes have a long-standing history of working together to develop cooperative agreements on taxation for cigarettes, fuel, timber, and cannabis. It is the legislature's intent, given the positive experiences from the nearly two decades of cooperation, to build on these successes and provide the governor with the authority to address state sales, use, and business and occupation taxes on certain activities.
(4) In addition, it is the legislature's intent that these compacts will have no impact on the taxation of any transaction that is the subject of other compacts, contracts, or agreements authorized elsewhere in this chapter.
(5) For the purposes of this section, "cannabis" has the meaning provided in RCW 69.50.101.
[ 2022 c 16 § 34; 2020 c 132 § 1.]
NOTES:
Intent—Finding—2022 c 16: See note following RCW 69.50.101.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06 - Governor. › 43.06.525 - State sales, use, and business and occupation taxes—Indian tribe compacts—Effect on local taxes.

RCW 43.06.525
State sales, use, and business and occupation taxes—Indian tribe compacts—Effect on local taxes.
Nothing in chapter 132, Laws of 2020 in any way limits, restricts, reduces, or affects local taxes authorized under chapter 82.14 RCW, RCW 81.104.170, Title 35, 36, or 84 RCW, or any other provision of state law authorizing a local tax.
[ 2020 c 132 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06 - Governor. › 43.06.530 - National 988 hotline and behavioral health crisis system coordinator.

RCW 43.06.530
National 988 hotline and behavioral health crisis system coordinator. (Expires June 30, 2028.)
(1) The governor shall appoint a 988 hotline and behavioral health crisis system coordinator to provide project coordination and oversight for the implementation and administration of the 988 crisis hotline, other requirements of chapter 302, Laws of 2021, and other projects supporting the behavioral health crisis system. The coordinator shall:
(a) Oversee the collaboration between the department of health and the health care authority in their respective roles in supporting the crisis call center hubs, providing the necessary support services for 988 callers, and establishing adequate requirements and guidance for their contractors to fulfill the requirements of chapter 302, Laws of 2021;
(b) Ensure coordination and facilitate communication between stakeholders such as crisis call center hub contractors, behavioral health administrative service organizations, county authorities, other crisis hotline centers, managed care organizations, and, in collaboration with the state 911 coordination office, with 911 emergency communications systems;
(c) Review the development of adequate and consistent training for crisis call center personnel and, in coordination with the state 911 coordination office, for 911 operators with respect to their interactions with the crisis hotline center; and
(d) Coordinate implementation of other behavioral health initiatives among state agencies and educational institutions, as appropriate, including coordination of data between agencies.
(2) This section expires June 30, 2028.
[ 2023 c 454 § 8; 2021 c 302 § 107.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 302: See note following RCW 71.24.890.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.010 - Office created—Purpose.

RCW 43.06A.010
Office created—Purpose.
There is hereby created an office of the family and children's ombuds within the office of the governor for the purpose of promoting public awareness and understanding of family and children services, identifying system issues and responses for the governor and the legislature to act upon, and monitoring and ensuring compliance with administrative acts, relevant statutes, rules, and policies pertaining to family and children's services and the placement, supervision, and treatment of children in the state's care or in state-licensed facilities or residences. The ombuds shall report directly to the governor and shall exercise his or her powers and duties independently of the secretary.
[ 2013 c 23 § 71; 1996 c 131 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1996 c 131 §§ 1-3: "Sections 1 through 3 of this act are necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately [March 21, 1996]." [ 1996 c 131 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.020 - Ombuds—Appointment, term of office.

RCW 43.06A.020
Ombuds—Appointment, term of office.
(1) Subject to confirmation by the senate, the governor shall appoint an ombuds who shall be a person of recognized judgment, independence, objectivity, and integrity, and shall be qualified by training or experience, or both, in family and children's services law and policy. Prior to the appointment, the governor shall consult with, and may receive recommendations from the committee, regarding the selection of the ombuds.
(2) The person appointed ombuds shall hold office for a term of three years and shall continue to hold office until reappointed or until his or her successor is appointed. The governor may remove the ombuds only for neglect of duty, misconduct, or inability to perform duties. Any vacancy shall be filled by similar appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term.
[ 2013 c 23 § 72; 1998 c 288 § 7; 1996 c 131 § 3.]
NOTES:
Severability—1998 c 288: "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." [ 1998 c 288 § 8.]
Effective date—1998 c 288: "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 [April 2, 1998]." [ 1998 c 288 § 9.]
Effective date—1996 c 131 §§ 1-3: See note following RCW 43.06A.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.030 - Duties.

RCW 43.06A.030
Duties.
The ombuds shall perform the following duties:
(1) Provide information as appropriate on the rights and responsibilities of individuals receiving family and children's services, juvenile justice, juvenile rehabilitation, and child early learning, and on the procedures for providing these services;
(2) Investigate, upon his or her own initiative or upon receipt of a complaint, an administrative act alleged to be contrary to law, rule, or policy, imposed without an adequate statement of reason, or based on irrelevant, immaterial, or erroneous grounds; however, the ombuds may decline to investigate any complaint as provided by rules adopted under this chapter;
(3) Monitor the procedures as established, implemented, and practiced by the department of children, youth, and families to carry out its responsibilities in delivering family and children's services with a view toward appropriate preservation of families and ensuring children's health and safety;
(4) Review periodically the facilities and procedures of state institutions serving children, youth, and families, and state-licensed facilities or residences;
(5) Recommend changes in the procedures for addressing the needs of children, youth, and families;
(6) Submit annually to the oversight board for children, youth, and families created in RCW 43.216.015 and to the governor by November 1st a report analyzing the work of the department of children, youth, and families, including recommendations;
(7) Grant the oversight board for children, youth, and families access to all relevant records in the possession of the ombuds unless prohibited by law; and
(8) Adopt rules necessary to implement this chapter.
[ 2018 c 58 § 77; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 112; 2013 c 23 § 73; 1996 c 131 § 4.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2018 c 58: See note following RCW 28A.655.080.
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.050 - Confidentiality.

RCW 43.06A.050
Confidentiality.
The ombuds shall treat all matters under investigation, including the identities of service recipients, complainants, and individuals from whom information is acquired, as confidential, except as far as disclosures may be necessary to enable the ombuds to perform the duties of the office and to support any recommendations resulting from an investigation. Upon receipt of information that by law is confidential or privileged, the ombuds shall maintain the confidentiality of such information and shall not further disclose or disseminate the information except as provided by applicable state or federal law. Investigative records of the office of the ombuds are confidential and are exempt from public disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW.
[ 2013 c 23 § 74; 2005 c 274 § 294; 1996 c 131 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.060 - Admissibility of evidence—Testimony regarding official duties.

RCW 43.06A.060
Admissibility of evidence—Testimony regarding official duties.
Neither the ombuds nor the ombuds's staff may be compelled, in any judicial or administrative proceeding, to testify or to produce evidence regarding the exercise of the official duties of the ombuds or of the ombuds's staff. All related memoranda, work product, notes, and case files of the ombuds's office are confidential, are not subject to discovery, judicial or administrative subpoena, or other method of legal compulsion, and are not admissible in evidence in a judicial or administrative proceeding. This section shall not apply to the oversight board for children, youth, and families.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 812; 2013 c 23 § 75; 1998 c 288 § 1.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.070 - Release of identifying information.

RCW 43.06A.070
Release of identifying information.
Identifying information about complainants or witnesses shall not be subject to any method of legal compulsion, nor shall such information be revealed to the oversight board for children, youth, and families or the governor except under the following circumstances: (1) The complainant or witness waives confidentiality; (2) under a legislative subpoena when there is a legislative investigation for neglect of duty or misconduct by the ombuds or ombuds's office when the identifying information is necessary to the investigation of the ombuds's acts; or (3) under an investigation or inquiry by the governor as to neglect of duty or misconduct by the ombuds or ombuds's office when the identifying information is necessary to the investigation of the ombuds's acts.
For the purposes of this section, "identifying information" includes the complainant's or witness's name, location, telephone number, likeness, social security number or other identification number, or identification of immediate family members.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 813; 2013 c 23 § 76; 1998 c 288 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.080 - Inapplicability of privilege in RCW 43.06A.060.

RCW 43.06A.080
Inapplicability of privilege in RCW 43.06A.060.
The privilege described in RCW 43.06A.060 does not apply when:
(1) The ombuds or ombuds's staff member has direct knowledge of an alleged crime, and the testimony, evidence, or discovery sought is relevant to that allegation;
(2) The ombuds or a member of the ombuds's staff has received a threat of, or becomes aware of a risk of, imminent serious harm to any person, and the testimony, evidence, or discovery sought is relevant to that threat or risk;
(3) The ombuds has been asked to provide general information regarding the general operation of, or the general processes employed at, the ombuds's office; or
(4) The ombuds or ombuds's staff member has direct knowledge of a failure by any person specified in RCW 26.44.030, including the state family and children's ombuds or any volunteer in the ombuds's office, to comply with RCW 26.44.030.
[ 2013 c 23 § 77; 1998 c 288 § 3.]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.085 - Liability for good faith performance—Privileged communications.

RCW 43.06A.085
Liability for good faith performance—Privileged communications.
(1) An employee of the office of the family and children's ombuds is not liable for good faith performance of responsibilities under this chapter.
(2) No discriminatory, disciplinary, or retaliatory action may be taken against an employee of the department, an employee of a contracting agency of the department, a foster parent, or a recipient of family and children's services for any communication made, or information given or disclosed, to aid the office of the family and children's ombuds in carrying out its responsibilities, unless the communication or information is made, given, or disclosed maliciously or without good faith. This subsection is not intended to infringe on the rights of the employer to supervise, discipline, or terminate an employee for other reasons.
(3) All communications by an ombuds, if reasonably related to the requirements of that individual's responsibilities under this chapter and done in good faith, are privileged and that privilege shall serve as a defense in any action in libel or slander.
[ 2013 c 23 § 78; 2009 c 88 § 2; 1999 c 390 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.090 - Report of conduct warranting criminal or disciplinary proceedings.

RCW 43.06A.090
Report of conduct warranting criminal or disciplinary proceedings.
When the ombuds or ombuds's staff member has reasonable cause to believe that any public official, employee, or other person has acted in a manner warranting criminal or disciplinary proceedings, the ombuds or ombuds's staff member shall report the matter, or cause a report to be made, to the appropriate authorities.
[ 2013 c 23 § 79; 1998 c 288 § 4.]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.100 - Communication with children in custody of department of children, youth, and families or part of a fatality investigation by the department of children, youth, and families—Access to information in possession or control of department of children, youth, and families or state institutions—Limitation on duty of office.

RCW 43.06A.100
Communication with children in custody of department of children, youth, and families or part of a fatality investigation by the department of children, youth, and families—Access to information in possession or control of department of children, youth, and families or state institutions—Limitation on duty of office.
(1) The department of children, youth, and families shall:
(a) Allow the ombuds or the ombuds's designee to communicate privately with any child in the custody of the department of children, youth, and families, or any child who is part of a near fatality investigation by the department of children, youth, and families, for the purposes of carrying out its duties under this chapter;
(b) Permit the ombuds or the ombuds designee physical access to state institutions serving children, and state licensed facilities or residences for the purpose of carrying out its duties under this chapter;
(c) Upon the ombuds's request, grant the ombuds or the ombuds's designee the right to access, inspect, and copy all relevant information, records, or documents in the possession or control of the department of children, youth, and families that the ombuds considers necessary in an investigation; and
(d) Grant the office of the family and children's ombuds unrestricted online access to the child welfare case management information system and the department of children, youth, and families data information system for the purpose of carrying out its duties under this chapter.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "near fatality" means an act that, as certified by a physician, places the child in serious or critical condition.
(3) Nothing in this section creates a duty for the office of the family and children's ombuds under RCW 43.06A.030 as related to children in the care of an early learning program described in RCW 43.216.500 through 43.216.550, a licensed child care center, or a licensed child care home.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 810; 2015 c 199 § 2; 2013 c 23 § 80; 2008 c 211 § 3; 1999 c 390 § 5.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Short title—2015 c 199: See note following RCW 43.216.650.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.110 - Child fatality review recommendations—Annual report.

RCW 43.06A.110
Child fatality review recommendations—Annual report.
The office of the family and children's ombuds shall issue an annual report to the legislature on the status of the implementation of child fatality review recommendations.
[ 2013 c 23 § 81; 2008 c 211 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06A - Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds. › 43.06A.900 - Construction.

RCW 43.06A.900
Construction.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to conflict with the duty to report specified in RCW 26.44.030.
[ 1998 c 288 § 5.]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06B - Office of the Education Ombuds. › 43.06B.020 - Powers and duties.

RCW 43.06B.020
Powers and duties.
The education ombuds shall have the following powers and duties:
(1) To develop parental involvement materials, including instructional guides developed to inform parents of the essential academic learning requirements required by the superintendent of public instruction. The instructional guides also shall contain actions parents may take to assist their children in meeting the requirements, and should focus on reaching parents who have not previously been involved with their children's education;
(2) To provide information to students, parents, and interested members of the public regarding this state's public elementary and secondary education system;
(3) To identify obstacles to greater parent and community involvement in school shared decision-making processes and recommend strategies for helping parents and community members to participate effectively in school shared decision-making processes, including understanding and respecting the roles of school building administrators and staff;
(4) To identify and recommend strategies for improving the success rates of ethnic and racial student groups and students with disabilities, with disproportionate academic achievement;
(5) To refer complainants and others to appropriate resources, agencies, or departments;
(6) To facilitate the resolution of complaints made by parents and students with regard to the state's public elementary and secondary education system;
(7) To perform such other functions consistent with the purpose of the education ombuds; and
(8) To consult with representatives of the following organizations and groups regarding the work of the office of the education ombuds, including but not limited to:
(a) The state parent teacher association;
(b) Certificated and classified school employees;
(c) School and school district administrators;
(d) Parents of special education students;
(e) Parents of English language learners;
(f) The Washington state commission on Hispanic affairs;
(g) The Washington state commission on African American affairs;
(h) The Washington state commission on Asian Pacific American affairs; and
(i) The governor's office of Indian affairs.
[ 2013 c 23 § 83; 2008 c 165 § 2; 2006 c 116 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06B - Office of the Education Ombuds. › 43.06B.030 - Liability for good faith performance—Privileged communications.

RCW 43.06B.030
Liability for good faith performance—Privileged communications.
(1) Neither the education ombuds nor any regional educational ombuds are liable for good faith performance of responsibilities under this chapter.
(2) No discriminatory, disciplinary, or retaliatory action may be taken against any student or employee of any school district, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, or the state board of education, for any communication made, or information given or disclosed, to aid the education ombuds in carrying out his or her duties and responsibilities, unless the same was done without good faith or maliciously. This subsection is not intended to infringe upon the rights of a school district to supervise, discipline, or terminate an employee for other reasons or to discipline a student for other reasons.
(3) All communications by the education ombuds or the ombuds's staff or designee, if reasonably related to the education ombuds's duties and responsibilities and done in good faith, are privileged and that privilege shall serve as a defense to any action in libel or slander.
[ 2013 c 23 § 84; 2006 c 116 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06B - Office of the Education Ombuds. › 43.06B.040 - Confidentiality.

RCW 43.06B.040
Confidentiality.
The education ombuds shall treat all matters, including the identities of students, complainants, and individuals from whom information is acquired, as confidential, except as necessary to enable the education ombuds to perform the duties of the office. Upon receipt of information that by law is confidential or privileged, the ombuds shall maintain the confidentiality of such information and shall not further disclose or disseminate the information except as provided by applicable state or federal law.
[ 2013 c 23 § 85; 2006 c 116 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06B - Office of the Education Ombuds. › 43.06B.050 - Annual reports.

RCW 43.06B.050
Annual reports.
The education ombuds shall report on the work and accomplishment of the office and advise and make recommendations to the governor, the legislature, and the state board of education annually. The initial report to the governor, the legislature, and the state board of education shall be made by September 1, 2007, and there shall be annual reports by September 1st each year thereafter. The annual reports shall provide at least the following information:
(1) How the education ombuds's services have been used and by whom;
(2) Methods for the education ombuds to increase and enhance family and community involvement in public education;
(3) Recommendations to eliminate barriers and obstacles to meaningful family and community involvement in public education; and
(4) Strategies to improve the educational opportunities for all students in the state, including recommendations from organizations and groups provided in RCW 43.06B.020(8).
[ 2013 c 23 § 86; 2006 c 116 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06B - Office of the Education Ombuds. › 43.06B.060 - Public school antiharassment policies and strategies—Lead agency.

RCW 43.06B.060
Public school antiharassment policies and strategies—Lead agency.
In addition to duties assigned under RCW 43.06B.020, the office of the education ombuds shall serve as the lead agency to provide resources and tools to parents and families about public school antiharassment policies and strategies.
[ 2013 c 23 § 87; 2010 c 239 § 3.]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2010 c 239: "The legislature finds that despite a recognized law prohibiting harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students in public schools and despite widespread adoption of antiharassment policies by school districts, harassment of students continues and has not declined since the law was enacted. Furthermore, students and parents continue to seek assistance against harassment, and schools need to disseminate more widely their antiharassment policies and procedures. The legislature intends to expand the tools, information, and strategies that can be used to combat harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students, and increase awareness of the need for respectful learning communities in all public schools." [ 2010 c 239 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.005 - Intent.

RCW 43.06C.005
Intent.
The legislature intends to create an independent and impartial office of the corrections ombuds to assist in strengthening procedures and practices that lessen the possibility of actions occurring within the department of corrections that may adversely impact the health, safety, welfare, and rehabilitation of offenders, and that will effectively reduce the exposure of the department to litigation.
[ 2018 c 270 § 1.]
NOTES:
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.010 - Definitions.

RCW 43.06C.010
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Abuse" means any act or failure to act by a department employee, subcontractor, or volunteer which was performed, or which was failed to be performed, knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally, and which caused, or may have caused, injury or death to an inmate.
(2) "Corrections ombuds" or "ombuds" means the corrections ombuds, staff of the corrections ombuds, and volunteers with the office of the corrections ombuds.
(3) "Department" means the department of corrections.
(4) "Inmate" means a person committed to the physical custody of the department, including persons residing in a correctional institution or facility and persons received from another state, another state agency, a county, or the federal government.
(5) "Neglect" means a negligent act or omission by any department employee, subcontractor, or volunteer which caused, or may have caused, injury or death to an inmate.
(6) "Office" means the office of the corrections ombuds.
(7) "Secretary" means the secretary of the department of corrections.
(8) "Statewide family council" means the family council maintained by the department that is comprised of representatives from local family councils.
[ 2018 c 270 § 3.]
NOTES:
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.020 - Office created—Purpose.

RCW 43.06C.020
Office created—Purpose.
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, there is hereby created an office of corrections ombuds within the office of the governor for the purpose of providing information to inmates and their families; promoting public awareness and understanding of the rights and responsibilities of inmates; identifying system issues and responses for the governor and the legislature to act upon; and ensuring compliance with relevant statutes, rules, and policies pertaining to corrections facilities, services, and treatment of inmates under the jurisdiction of the department.
The ombuds reports directly to the governor and exercises his or her powers and duties independently of the secretary.
[ 2018 c 270 § 2.]
NOTES:
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.030 - Appointment of ombuds—Term—Other employees.

RCW 43.06C.030
Appointment of ombuds—Term—Other employees.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the governor shall appoint an ombuds who must be a person of recognized judgment, independence, objectivity, and integrity, and be qualified by training or experience in corrections law and policy. Prior to the appointment, the governor shall consult with, and may receive recommendations from, the appropriate committees of the legislature, delegates of the statewide family council as selected by the members of the council, and other relevant stakeholders, regarding the selection of the ombuds.
(2) The person appointed ombuds holds office for a term of three years and continues to hold office until reappointed or until his or her successor is appointed. The governor may remove the ombuds only for neglect of duty, misconduct, or the inability to perform duties. Any vacancy must be filled by similar appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term.
(3) The ombuds may employ technical experts and other employees to complete the purposes of this chapter.
[ 2018 c 270 § 4.]
NOTES:
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.060 - Confidentiality of correspondence, communications, investigations.

RCW 43.06C.060
Confidentiality of correspondence, communications, investigations.
(1) Correspondence and communication with the office is confidential and must be protected as privileged correspondence in the same manner as legal correspondence or communication.
(2) The office shall establish confidentiality rules and procedures for all information maintained by the office.
(3) The ombuds shall treat all matters under investigation, including the identities of recipients of ombuds services, complainants, and individuals from whom information is acquired, as confidential, except as far as disclosures may be necessary to enable the ombuds to perform the duties of the office and to support any recommendations resulting from an investigation. Upon receipt of information that by law is confidential or privileged, the ombuds shall maintain the confidentiality of such information and shall not further disclose or disseminate the information except as provided by applicable state or federal law or as authorized by subsection (4) of this section. All records exchanged and communications between the office of the corrections ombuds and the department to include the investigative record are confidential and are exempt from public disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW.
(4) To the extent the ombuds reasonably believes necessary, the ombuds:
(a) Must reveal information obtained in the course of providing ombuds services to prevent reasonably certain death or substantial bodily harm; and
(b) May reveal information obtained in the course of providing ombuds services to prevent the commission of a crime.
(5) If the ombuds believes it is necessary to reveal investigative records for any of the reasons outlined in *section 4 of this act, the ombuds shall provide a copy of what they intend to disclose to the department for review and application of legal exemptions prior to releasing to any other persons. If the ombuds receives personally identifying information about individual corrections staff during the course of an investigation that the ombuds determines is unrelated or unnecessary to the subject of the investigation or recommendation for action, the ombuds will not further disclose such information. If the ombuds determines that such disclosure is necessary to an investigation or recommendation, the ombuds will contact the staff member as well as the bargaining unit representative before any disclosure.
[ 2018 c 270 § 7.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The reference to "section 4 of this act" appears to be erroneous. "Subsection (4) of this section" was apparently intended.
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.070 - Civil immunity—Retaliatory actions.

RCW 43.06C.070
Civil immunity—Retaliatory actions.
(1) A civil action may not be brought against any employee of the office for good faith performance of responsibilities under this chapter.
(2) No discriminatory, disciplinary, or retaliatory action may be taken against a department employee, subcontractor, or volunteer, an inmate, or a family member or representative of an inmate for any communication made, or information given or disclosed, to aid the office in carrying out its responsibilities, unless the communication or information is made, given, or disclosed maliciously or without good faith.
(3) This section is not intended to infringe on the rights of an employer to supervise, discipline, or terminate an employee for other reasons.
[ 2018 c 270 § 8.]
NOTES:
Sunset Act application: See note following chapter digest.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06C - Office of the Corrections Ombuds. › 43.06C.080 - Unexpected fatality review team—Duties.

RCW 43.06C.080
Unexpected fatality review team—Duties.
(1) The ombuds or the ombuds' designee shall serve as a member of the unexpected fatality review team convened under chapter 72.09 RCW.
(2) The department shall:
(a) Permit the ombuds or the ombuds' designee physical access to state institutions serving incarcerated individuals and state-licensed facilities or residences for the purposes of carrying out its duties under this chapter; and
(b) Upon the ombuds' request, grant the ombuds or the ombuds' designee the right to access, inspect, and copy all relevant information, records, or documents in the possession or control of the department that the ombuds considers necessary in an investigation.
(3) The office shall issue an annual report to the legislature on the status of the implementation of unexpected fatality review recommendations.
[ 2021 c 139 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06D - Office of Equity. › 43.06D.010 - Definitions.

RCW 43.06D.010
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Agency" means every state executive office, agency, department, or commission.
(2) "Director" means the director of the Washington state office of equity.
(3) "Disaggregated data" means data that has been broken down by appropriate subcategories.
(4) "Equity lens" means providing consideration to the characteristics listed in RCW 49.60.030, as well as immigration status and language access, to evaluate the equitable impacts of an agency's policy or program.
(5) "Office" means the Washington state office of equity.
[ 2020 c 332 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06D - Office of Equity. › 43.06D.020 - Office established—Purpose.

RCW 43.06D.020
Office established—Purpose.
(1) The Washington state office of equity is established within the office of the governor for the purpose of promoting access to equitable opportunities and resources that reduce disparities, and improve outcomes statewide across state government.
(2) The office envisions everyone in Washington having full access to the opportunities and resources they need to flourish and achieve their full potential.
(3) The work of the office must:
(a) Be guided by the following principles of equity:
(i) Equity requires developing, strengthening, and supporting policies and procedures that distribute and prioritize resources to those who have been historically and currently marginalized, including tribes;
(ii) Equity requires the elimination of systemic barriers that have been deeply entrenched in systems of inequality and oppression; and
(iii) Equity achieves procedural and outcome fairness, promoting dignity, honor, and respect for all people;
(b) Complement and not supplant the work of the statutory commissions.
[ 2020 c 332 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 332 § 3: "Section 3 of this act takes effect July 1, 2020." [ 2020 c 332 § 11.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06D - Office of Equity. › 43.06D.030 - Appointment of director—Duties—Other employees.

RCW 43.06D.030
Appointment of director—Duties—Other employees.
(1) The office is administered by a director, who is appointed by the governor with advice and consent of the senate. The director shall report to the governor. The director must receive a salary as fixed by the governor in accordance with RCW 43.03.040.
(2) The director shall:
(a) Employ and supervise staff as necessary to carry out the purpose of this chapter and the duties of the office; and
(b) Oversee the administration, programs, and policies of the office in accordance with the principles in RCW 43.06D.020.
[ 2020 c 332 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06D - Office of Equity. › 43.06D.050 - Authority.

RCW 43.06D.050
Authority.
The office may:
(1) Provide technical assistance to agencies;
(2) Conduct research projects, as needed, provided that no research project is proposed or authorizes funding without consideration of the business case for the project including a review of the total cost of the project, similar projects conducted in the state, and alternatives analyzed;
(3) Conduct policy analyses and provide a forum where ideas and issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion plans, policies, and standards can be reviewed;
(4) Develop policy positions and legislative proposals;
(5) Consider, on an ongoing basis, ways to promote investments in enterprise-level diversity, equity, and inclusion projects that will result in service improvements and cost efficiency;
(6) Fulfill external data requests, as resources allow; and
(7) Receive and solicit gifts, grants, and endowments from public or private sources that are made for the use or benefit of the office and to expend the same or any income therefrom according to their terms and this chapter. The director must report funds received from private sources to the office of financial management on a regular basis. Funds received from private sources may not be applied to reduce or substitute the office's budget as appropriated by the legislature, but must be applied and expended toward projects and functions authorized by this chapter that were not funded by the legislature.
[ 2020 c 332 § 8.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.06D - Office of Equity. › 43.06D.901 - Construction—2020 c 332.

RCW 43.06D.901
Construction—2020 c 332.
Nothing in chapter 332, Laws of 2020 creates any right or cause of action, nor may it be relied upon to compel the establishment of any program or special entitlement.
[ 2020 c 332 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.010 - Official bond.

RCW 43.07.010
Official bond.
The secretary of state must execute an official bond to the state in the sum of ten thousand dollars, conditioned for the faithful performance of the duties of his or her office, and shall receive no pay until such bond, approved by the governor, is filed with the state auditor.
[ 2009 c 549 § 5024; 1965 c 8 § 43.07.010. Prior: 1890 p 633 § 10; RRS § 10994.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.020 - Assistant and deputy secretary of state, chief of staff.

RCW 43.07.020
Assistant and deputy secretary of state, chief of staff.
The secretary of state may have one assistant secretary of state, one deputy secretary of state, and one chief of staff each of whom shall have signing authority and be appointed by the secretary in writing, and continue serving at the pleasure of the secretary. The assistant secretary of state, deputy secretary of state, and chief of staff shall have the power to perform any act or duty relating to the secretary of state's office, that the secretary of state has, and the secretary of state shall be responsible for the acts of said assistant, deputy, and chief of staff.
[ 2023 c 142 § 1; 2009 c 549 § 5025; 1965 c 8 § 43.07.020. Prior: 1947 c 107 § 1; 1903 c 75 § 1; 1890 p 633 § 12; RRS § 10995.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.030 - General duties.

RCW 43.07.030
General duties.
The secretary of state shall:
(1) Keep a register of and attest the official acts of the governor;
(2) Affix the state seal, with his or her attestation, to commissions, pardons, and other public instruments to which the signature of the governor is required, and also attestations and authentications of certificates and other documents properly issued by the secretary;
(3) Record all articles of incorporation, deeds, or other papers filed in the secretary of state's office;
(4) Receive and file all the official bonds of officers required to be filed with the secretary of state;
(5) Take and file in the secretary of state's office receipts for all books distributed by him or her;
(6) Certify to the legislature the election returns for all officers required by the Constitution to be so certified, and certify to the governor the names of all other persons who have received at any election the highest number of votes for any office the incumbent of which is to be commissioned by the governor;
(7) Furnish, on demand, to any person paying the fees therefor, a certified copy of all or any part of any law, record, or other instrument filed, deposited, or recorded in the secretary of state's office;
(8) Present to the speaker of the house of representatives, at the beginning of each regular session of the legislature during an odd-numbered year, a full account of all purchases made and expenses incurred by the secretary of state on account of the state;
(9) File in his or her office an impression of each and every seal in use by any state officer;
(10) Keep a record of all fees charged or received by the secretary of state.
[ 2009 c 549 § 5026; 1982 c 35 § 186; 1980 c 87 § 21; 1969 ex.s. c 53 § 3; 1965 c 8 § 43.07.030. Prior: 1890 p 630 § 2; RRS § 10992.]
NOTES:
Intent—Severability—Effective dates—Application—1982 c 35: See notes following RCW 43.07.160.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.032 - Authenticity or certification of signatures—Attestation.

RCW 43.07.032
Authenticity or certification of signatures—Attestation.
(1) The secretary of state may attest to the authenticity of the signature of a public official in the state of Washington.
(2) The secretary of state may attest to the authenticity [of], or certify a signature of, a notary public except as noted in subsection (3) of this section.
(3) The secretary of state may not certify or attest to the signature of a notary public on a document:
(a) Regarding allegiance to a government or jurisdiction;
(b) Relating to the relinquishment or renunciation of citizenship, sovereignty, military status, or world service authority; or
(c) Setting forth or implying for the bearer a claim of immunity from the laws of the jurisdictions of Washington, immunity from the laws of the state of Washington, or immunity from federal law.
(4) The secretary of state may adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2016 sp.s. c 23 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.035 - Memorandum of agreement or contract for secretary of state's services with state agencies or private entities.

RCW 43.07.035
Memorandum of agreement or contract for secretary of state's services with state agencies or private entities.
The secretary of state shall have the authority to enter into a memorandum of agreement or contract with any agency of state government or private entity to provide for the performance of any of the secretary of state's services or duties under the various corporation statutes of this state.
[ 1985 c 156 § 19; 1982 c 35 § 190.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1985 c 156: "Sections 1 through 19, 21, and 23 through 26 shall take effect on January 1, 1986." [ 1985 c 156 § 27.]
Intent—Severability—Effective dates—Application—1982 c 35: See notes following RCW 43.07.160.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.037 - Gifts, grants, conveyances—Receipt, sale—Rules.

RCW 43.07.037
Gifts, grants, conveyances—Receipt, sale—Rules.
The secretary of state and the *council may accept gifts, grants, conveyances, bequests, and devises, of real or personal property, or both, in trust or otherwise, and sell, lease, exchange, invest, or expend these donations or the proceeds, rents, profits, and income from the donations except as limited by the donor's terms. The secretary of state shall adopt rules to govern and protect the receipt and expenditure of the proceeds.
[ 1996 c 253 § 105.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: 1996 c 253 § 101, which created the international education and exchange council, was vetoed.
Findings—Purpose—Severability—Part headings not law—1996 c 253: See notes following RCW 28B.109.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.07 - Secretary of State. › 43.07.040 - Custodian of state records.

RCW 43.07.040
Custodian of state records.
The secretary of state is charged with the custody:
(1) Of all acts and resolutions passed by the legislature;
(2) Of the journals of the legislature;
(3) Of the seal of the state;
(4) Of all books, records, deeds, parchments, maps, and papers required to be kept on deposit in his or her office pursuant to law;
(5) Of the enrolled copy of the Constitution.
[ 2009 c 549 § 5027; 1965 c 8 § 43.07.040. Prior: 1903 c 107 § 1; 1890 p 629 § 1; RRS § 10991.]