Washington Administrative Code Title 474 - State Treasurer's Office
Washington Administrative Code Title 474 – State Treasurer’s Office
Title 474 of the Washington Administrative Code contains rules and regulations established by the State Treasurer’s Office to govern certain administrative functions related to the Treasurer’s duties, especially regarding public records and leasing-related securities.
Chapter 474-01: Regulations Ensuring Compliance with the Public Records Act
Purpose
This chapter implements the Public Records Act as it applies to the State Treasurer’s Office. It sets procedures and responsibilities for how the office handles public records requests and ensures compliance with state law.
Key Definitions
Public Records: All writings and records related to government functions held by the Treasurer’s Office, regardless of format (paper, electronic, photographic, etc.).
Writing: Includes all means of recording information, such as paper, electronic files, photographs, maps, and audio recordings.
State Treasurer’s Office: The constitutional office of the State Treasurer and its employees.
Office Organization
The State Treasurer’s Office is a constitutionally established agency based in Olympia, Washington, with staff organized to manage the state’s funds and financial matters.
Public Records Officer
A Public Records Officer is appointed to oversee the handling of public records requests and ensure compliance with the Public Records Act. The officer may delegate responsibilities to other staff members.
Hours for Public Records Access
Without an appointment: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
By appointment: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Access is available Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. Appointments help ensure the availability of records and staff.
Requesting Public Records
Requests must be clear and specific about the records sought.
They can be submitted in writing, by email, mail, or in person.
The office encourages people to check online databases first to see if the information is already publicly available.
Improperly addressed requests may be treated as general inquiries rather than formal Public Records Act requests.
Processing Requests
Requests are logged and assigned a tracking number.
The office responds within five business days by providing the records, acknowledging receipt with an estimated date, asking for clarification if necessary, or denying the request.
For large requests, records may be provided in parts.
If a requester does not pick up records within 30 days, the request may be considered abandoned.
Fees for Copies
The office may charge fees for copying records according to state fee schedules.
Exemptions
Some records or parts of records may be exempt from disclosure due to confidentiality laws or privacy concerns. When records are partially exempt, the non-exempt portions must still be released with explanations for redactions.
RELATED Blog
0 comments