WashCOG opposes bill that would weaken Public Records Act

JAN. 22, 2024 — The Washington Coalition for Open Government is urging proponents of state transparency to scrutinize and speak out regarding House Bill 2307, which would impose additional steps for processing public records requests and rein in penalties and fees when an agency fails to fulfill a request.

The bill, sponsored by Representatives Joe Schmick (R-9) and Cyndy Jacobsen (R-25) is being heard by the Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations on Jan. 24.

The legislation is described as intended to limit “vexatious claims” and would add more steps to the administrative and judicial review process for records requests and responses.

“Government agencies should help the public get the records to which they are entitled, instead of operating in ways that make that more difficult,” said Mike Fancher, WashCOG president. “This bill would do just the opposite. Passage would be yet another example of the legislature undermining the people’s right to know.”

 Members of the House State Government & Tribal Relations Committee are Bill Ramos, chair (D-5), Chris Stearns (D-47), Greg Cheney (R-18), Leonard Christian (R-4),  Mia Gregerson (D-33), Sam Low (R-39) and Sharlett Mena (D-29).