This bill aims to enhance public access to records by studying the potential establishment of the Washington Office of Transparency Ombuds as an independent state agency. The legislature expresses its commitment to open governance and recognizes the public's right to access information regarding government decisions that affect their lives. The bill mandates a comprehensive study to be conducted by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee, in collaboration with various stakeholders, to evaluate the efficacy of such an agency. The study will include comparisons of public records laws across states, an assessment of existing independent agencies, and recommendations for the duties of the proposed office.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Joint Legislative Committee on Transparency to oversee the study and coordinate efforts among various entities, including representatives from the attorney general's office and media organizations. The committee will consist of members from both legislative chambers and will be responsible for submitting findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 1, 2026. The act is set to expire on December 31, 2026, unless further action is taken.