Enhancing access to public records.

HB 1055 directs a study to evaluate whether creating an independent Washington Office of Transparency Ombuds would improve public record access. The study will compare Washington’s public records laws with other states (including Pennsylvania’s system), assess potential benefits like reduced litigation costs and easier access, and recommend duties for such an office. The findings must be reported to the legislature by December 2026, but the bill itself does not create the office or change existing laws.