1. (1) The Public Records Act provides that a number of types of documents are exempt from public inspection and copying. In addition, documents are exempt from disclosure if any "other statute" exempts or prohibits disclosure.

2. (2) During the course of an investigation, records generated or collected as a result of the investigation may be exempt from public inspection and copying under RCW 42.56.240.

   1. (a) The investigation is not considered complete until a case is resolved either by a stipulation and settlement that is signed by all parties; or, when the board enters a final order after a public hearing.

   2. (b) The following records are not considered part of the investigation file and are releasable upon request:

      1. (i) Complaints, upon receipt by the respondent;
      2. (ii) The board staff's investigation report;
      3. (iii) The board's findings of reasonable cause or no reasonable cause; and
      4. (iv) Stipulations and settlements, upon receipt by the board.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 42.52.360. WSR 18-20-107, § 292-130-130, filed 10/2/18, effective 11/2/18; WSR 16-16-075, § 292-130-130, filed 7/29/16, effective 8/29/16. Statutory Authority: RCW 42.52.360 (2)(b) and 42.52.425. WSR 01-13-033, § 292-130-130, filed 6/13/01, effective 7/14/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 42.52.360 (2)(b). WSR 98-22-072, § 292-130-130, filed 11/3/98, effective 12/4/98.]