WA HB1055

Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee would conduct a study on establishing the Washington Office of Transparency Ombuds as an independent state agency to assist individuals with accessing public records

Study must compare all 50 states' public records laws, evaluate states with independent open records agencies (specifically Pennsylvania), and assess potential cost savings from reduced litigation and decreased workloads

Creates a Joint Legislative Committee on Transparency with 12 members including legislators, media representatives, and appointees from the governor and attorney general to coordinate the study

Committee must convene by June 1, 2026, meet at least monthly, and submit recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2026

Act expires December 31, 2026