Bill > SB5049

This bill amends the existing law regarding the Public Records Exemptions Accountability Committee (PREAC), which is a 13-member committee responsible for reviewing exemptions to public disclosure laws. The committee will be composed of appointees from various government branches, including two members appointed by the governor (one representing local government), two members appointed by the attorney general (one representing a statewide media association), one member appointed by the state auditor, two senators (one from each major caucus), two representatives (one from each major caucus), and four public members selected to ensure diverse viewpoints and geographic representation. The governor will select the committee's chair. The committee's primary purpose is to systematically review public disclosure exemptions and provide recommendations on whether each exemption should be continued, modified, scheduled for future review, or terminated. The committee must meet at least four times per year, with all meetings open to the public, and must consider input from interested parties. By November 15th annually, the committee will transmit its recommendations to the governor, attorney general, and relevant legislative committees. The bill also specifies that legislative members will be reimbursed for travel expenses, and the offices of the attorney general and financial management will provide staff support to the committee.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5049&Year=2025&Initiative=false