OLYMPIA, Wash. (Legal Newsline) — Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Aug 23 that he has filed a proposed update to the Public Records Act (PRA) Model Rules.
The model rules provide information about the PRA and some best practice ideas, and the proposed updates reflect changes in state laws and the changing nature of technology.
Specifically, Ferguson’s proposed update verifies the public can request public records stored on personal devices, as long as these records concern agency business. Additionally, the update allows for stronger efficiency and transparency for the handling of requests. To do so, the update utilizes strategies first pioneered by the cities of Kirkland and Pasco.
Finally, the update examines relevant court rulings and recent changes the Washington legislature made to state law.
“I am committed to enhancing transparency in government,” Ferguson said. “Open government is vital to a free and informed society. These proposed changes will help the public access the information they are entitled to and help governments process their requests effectively.”