Washington § 40.10.010 - Essential records — Designation — List — Security and protection — Reproduction.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 40.10.010 — Essential records — Designation — List — Security and protection — Reproduction., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 40.10.010. Essential records — Designation — List — Security and protection — Reproduction.

In order to provide for the continuity and preservation of civil government, each elected and appointed officer of the state shall designate those public documents which are essential records of his or her office and needed in an emergency and for the reestablishment of normal operations after any such emergency. A list of such records shall be forwarded to the state archivist on forms prescribed by the state archivist. This list shall be reviewed at least annually by the elected or appointed officer to insure its completeness. Any changes or revisions following this review shall be forwarded to the state archivist. Each such elected and appointed officer of state government shall insure that the security of essential records of his or her office is by the most economical means commensurate with adequate protection. Protection of essential records may be by vaulting, planned or natural dispersal of copies, or any other method approved by the state archivist. Reproductions of essential records may be by photo copy, magnetic tape, microfilm, or other method approved by the state archivist. Local government offices may coordinate the protection of their essential records with the state archivist as necessary to provide continuity of local government under emergency conditions.
[ 2011 c 336 s 816; 1982 c 36 s 1; 1973 c 54 s 1; 1963 c 241 s 1.]

Notes

Severability—1973 c 54: "If any provision of this 1973 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1973 c 54 s 6.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 40.10.010

What does Revised Code of Washington § 40.10.010 cover?

Section 40.10.010 ("Essential records — Designation — List — Security and protection — Reproduction.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 40.10.010?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 40.10.010" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 40.10.010 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.