The bill amends RCW 42.56.240 to enhance the privacy protections surrounding body worn camera recordings by law enforcement and corrections agencies. It establishes that such recordings are exempt from public disclosure when nondisclosure is essential for protecting an individual's right to privacy. Specific circumstances are outlined where disclosure is presumed to be highly offensive, including recordings that depict medical facilities, private residences, minors, deceased individuals, and victims or witnesses of domestic violence or sexual assault. The bill also clarifies that individuals directly involved in an incident recorded by body worn cameras, as well as certain officials, have the right to access these recordings, subject to privacy exemptions.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the costs associated with redacting body worn camera recordings. It stipulates that law enforcement or corrections agencies cannot charge individuals directly involved in an incident for redaction costs unless they are parties in a related criminal or civil case. For other requesters, agencies may charge reasonable costs for redaction, but they must use the least costly methods available. The bill also mandates that body worn camera recordings be retained for at least sixty days before they can be destroyed, ensuring a minimum period for potential review or legal proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 42.56.240
Substitute Bill: 42.56.240