Bill > HB2440

This bill amends existing law to clarify that all matters and information received by the office of the education ombuds, including identifying information about students, complainants, and individuals from whom information is obtained, are considered confidential. The education ombuds can only disclose this information when necessary to perform their duties, as otherwise authorized by law, or as required or permitted by state or federal law. Records related to complaints are specifically exempt from public disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW, which governs public records. Identifying information is protected from subpoenas or discovery unless the complainant consents to disclosure, in connection with a legislative investigation into the ombuds' misconduct, or as requested by the governor for an inquiry into misconduct. Complainants can access their own complaint records, but identifying information of others and confidential or privileged information will be redacted. The bill also defines "identifying information" as data that can be linked to a specific individual involved in a complaint or incident.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2440&Year=2025&Initiative=false