Bill > SB5863

This bill addresses the preservation and management of historical records from Lakeland Village, a state-operated facility that previously served individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The bill requires the division of archives and records management to work with several state agencies to create a comprehensive preservation plan for historical documents and artifacts, including medical records, letters, images, films, and other materials. The preservation plan must identify at-risk records, assess their condition, outline specific preservation steps (such as storage, handling, digitization, and archival microfilm transfer), and include a timeline and budget. The plan must be reported to the legislature by September 1, 2025, and must also include provisions for future public access for historical and educational purposes. Additionally, the bill modifies existing state law regarding the transfer of public records to state archives, clarifying that confidential or privileged records will retain their status after transfer, but will become publicly accessible after 75 years. The bill extends the timeline for preserving Lakeland Village records from fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 2030, ensuring that these important historical documents are properly preserved and eventually made available for research and public understanding.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5863&Year=2025&Initiative=false