WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1949

Exempting certain scholarly communications from disclosure under the public records act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Beth Doglio and 6 co-sponsors

HB 1949 exempts scholarly communications from public disclosure requirements, shielding academic research at public institutions from mandatory records release.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1949

Legislative bill overview

HB 1949 would create an exemption to Washington's Public Records Act for certain scholarly communications, preventing disclosure of specific academic materials and research-related documents. The bill aims to protect academic work and institutional research from mandatory public disclosure requirements that currently apply to government agencies.

Why is this important

Public records laws balance government transparency with legitimate privacy and operational needs. This exemption could significantly affect researchers at public universities and research institutions who receive government funding, potentially limiting public access to taxpayer-funded research while protecting academic freedom and competitiveness. The bill reflects tension between transparency accountability and protecting intellectual property and research processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The term "scholarly communications" lacks precise definition, creating uncertainty about which documents qualify for exemption and potential for overuse of the exemption
  • Taxpayer access to funded research: Citizens may argue they have a right to access research funded by their tax dollars, especially at public institutions, versus researchers' claims of needing protection for preliminary work
  • Competitive disadvantage concerns: Universities might withhold information from competitors under this exemption, raising questions about fair access to publicly-funded innovation and limiting oversight of research conduct and integrity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.